Wil removed his shades and slipped them into his breast pocket of the jacket, gave her a wink, ?Neat.? He?d added before saying he would be right back. He walked away with that same graceful motion that suggested hunter to her.

Azjah gave him a brilliant smile before powering down the small computer, then she took the last sip of her scotch before sliding it away from herself toward the left side of the table. Meanwhile, Wil went behind the bar to locate the Inn?s finest scotch collection and poured two glasses of the rich amber whisky, before returning the bottle to the cabinet and returning to her table with a glass in each hand. ?Here you are, m?lady. Only the best for you.? He handed her one glass, and then sat down in the chair beside her own. ?You have me hooked on this.? He lifted his glass in toast to her, ?To the unexpected, heart-wrenching, life threatening adventure.? Then he winked with a devilish smile and tossed back a portion of his scotch as a punctuation mark to his toast.

Azjah gave him a quiet laugh as she lifted the new glass of scotch to his, giving the glass a light clink on the rim, ?Here?s to unexpected adventures and adrenaline rushes.? An unbidden thought skittered through her mind as she wondered what his hands would feel like on her skin. She gave herself a mental shake as he gave her that twisted, bad-boy grin she?d come to associate with him.

He took a sip of the scotch and nodded at the excellence of the taste and the complexity of the palate, ?Is life with you always as exciting as it was on that??checkout? flight?? He?d cleared his throat right before ?checkout? and Azjah gave him a slow smile.

She took a thoughtful sip of her own scotch as she studied Wil, ?Shall we say that I have my share of exciting moments?? Then she grew a bit less whimsical, ??What brings the I.I.S.C. to RhyDin, if I might ask you?? She gave her scotch a slight swirl as she wrapped both hands slowly about the glass to wait his reaction.

He straightened up in his seat, as a distinctly uncomfortable expression crossed his previously playful face. Clearly he was not comfortable talking about the I.I.S.C. ?With any luck, nothing will bring them here, not including myself, of course.? He remained rigidly poised on the edge of some knife that Azjah could only guess at.

That was no real answer at all and Azjah registered that omission for future reference. His sudden loss of easy going, nonchalance was conspicuous to say the least, ?I believe I could second that idea,? she told him. Keeping the I.I.S.C. away from DWI was something she could support whole heartedly. She then leaned back into her chair and regarded him, it was time to change the subject and get him back to being comfortable around her. ?If you liked that flight, you should have been with us when the Cepheans hitched a ride.?

Wil?s eyes held Azjah?s in that unblinking, predatory stare, ?I would have rather done that. At least the Cepheans you can eliminate and not feel guilty.? He lifted his glass to his lips and took another sip, ?Do you think Matthew?s goon squad actually contacted the I.I.S.C?? It was clearly playing on his mind now, and unbeknownst to Azjah, would determine whether he would stay or leave RhyDin.

Azjah considered this telling query of his as she took a sip of her scotch, ?Were I in his shoes, I would have. But he has neither confirmed nor denied your claim, so perhaps they were too busy. That would bother you?? She kept her attention on his handsome features, looking for a clue into what about that contact would cause him this kind of unease.

He took another sip of his Dalwhinnie and nodded, ?Yeah, I know you would have.? He was clearly recognizing that Azjah would have been thorough, and perhaps even pointing out her lack of research even now. ?And yeah, because they?re looking for me. I have kind of ?adopted? a ship they want back.? He steadily held her eyes as he spoke, ?They?re not sure that either I or the ship exists at this point, but they?ll know if one of us shows up, the other will be there also. You see, the ship couldn?t get here without me, and I couldn?t get here without the ship.?

She took a slow sip of the remaining scotch to avoid bursting into laughter at his expression, ?No, no Lucien and Gabriel are both living in RhyDin.?

He leaned back a little into his chair at this news, ?Ah, well? about the new LZ?.? Then he did laugh and winked at her, ?I?m sure Lucien is just as cuddly.?

?Yes and no,? she nodded, and suddenly realized that her hand was still resting on Wil?s. She retrieved it as she asked him, ?and a new LZ??

A flicker of disappointment crossed Wil?s features as she retrieved her hand, ?All kidding aside, I?ll stay here as long as I can. Hell, even if they find me, I might be able to cut a deal with them. The I.I.S.C. will never hesitate to use a person for their own goals.?

Azjah canted her head, ?You say that with a certain degree of cynicism.? Then she slid her gaze around the busy room, ?Should we speak of it here?? She found she was missing the warmth of his hand, but couldn?t find an acceptable reason to touch him again. Perhaps he would discuss it in more detail if they left the Inn and the potential for unwelcome eavesdroppers. But his response suggested otherwise.

Wil shook his head then, ?No, we shouldn?t. Let?s talk about something more fun.? It was a clear change of subject.

Azjah took his cue, she didn?t want to be overheard discussing something that held such high stakes for him, ?Are you another adrenaline junkie Mr. Savage? You never even had a pulse increase on our short hop.? She gave him a quick wink and added, ?Gabriel wondered for a moment if you were organic or not.? The big Carpathian hadn?t, but she wanted to tease him just a bit for his lack of excitement over the pirates.

About then, Eless arrived, and Azjah held her breath a moment. She and Rena had not departed on time as Rena was to have attended the wedding. Azjah did not know what had transpired beyond the fact that Elessaria had vanished, and Rena, Wil and Piper had spent a lot of time unsuccessfully seeking her.

But Wil laughed, ?Pirates firing on me I can take. It?s the mundane things in life that get me nervous. Actually, it?s part of my training as an I.I.S.C. agent.? So he preferred the risk of combat to the challenges of everyday life.

Azjah?s curiosity was aroused, ?Mundane things? Have you found such a thing here?? What about mundane things made him nervous?

Eless gave a nod of greeting to Wil and Azjah, and Azjah gave her a smile, ?Good evening Eless, how are you?? She hadn?t known the woman very well, not more than to say hello when they met.

She smiled warmly, ?Well enough, thank thee kindly Azjah.?

Wil looked around quickly at the sound of her voice, and saw Eless. He gave her a nod of greeting before turning back to Azjah, ?You?ve got a point there.?

Azjah nodded, ?I am glad to hear that Eless.? Perhaps one day she would know more about what happened, but for the moment, Wil and Eless seemed comfortable enough with their current relationship.

Azjah turned again toward Wil, ?Dyson was quite adamant about taking care that I won?t have another return flight like that one, though perhaps a fighter escort was not so far off the mark.? They had in fact already

Wil finished his drink, ?well, if you need an escort, I?ve got the ship to do it.? Then he added, ?I?d be willing.?

Azjah gave him a quiet laugh, ?Safer for you?? She was referring to being away from the weapons and explosives.

He gave her a laugh of self deprecation, ?Yeah, I can flee in the face of danger.? He started to reach out to touch her arm, but he stopped just before his hand actually reached her arm, as though he did not want to be inappropriate.

She had the grace to blush slightly at the insinuation that he might have fled, it had not been what she had intended by saying he was safer. She?d intended to imply that he wouldn?t have potentially been implicated in her weapons transportation business. ?the next flight will be transporting explosives, you may truly be safer some distance away,? she told him with a hint of an embarrassed smile. She lightly brushed his hand, but couldn?t justify more, ?But can your vessel feed you as well?? She tried for a bit of levity.

Azjah?s appointment had cancelled, and that left her with some free time on her hands. She maneuvered the Mc Laren through RhyDin streets toward the Inn as Gabriel remained unusually quiet. She parked the sleek car two spaces down from the door and glanced at Gabriel, ?When you are ready, I will listen you know.? He simply nodded and exited the car, fading from view as she walked through the door to the Inn.

Azjah paused and located an empty table near the fireplace, and the far window that looked out into the street. She settled into the comfortable chair and pulled the small electronic device from her valise. As she did so, Jewell Ravenlock offered her a nod of greeting, which Azjah returned as she powered up the tiny computer. Then she looked about for a serving lad. The Inn was very quiet, and she didn?t see anyone, so she rose and headed for the bar just as Jewel snorted and said, ?Hardly, I detest Marc Franco.?

Azjah glanced at Jewel and silently had to agree. As she made her way toward the bar, dark eyes watched her. The man at the end of the bar said nothing to her, yet his focus remained on Azjah, making her feel uncomfortable in the process. She?d seen the man at the Inn in the past, but could not remember ever having been introduced. She reached for a rocks glass before hunting out the bottle of Dalwhinnie Distillers Edition that Panther kept for her. She still felt those eyes on her, and she gave the silent man a brief nod as she poured the scotch into the glass.

After replacing the cork and setting the bottle back onto the shelf, she headed for her table, pausing to glance over her shoulder at the man, who appeared to be wearing some sort of uniform. Still he said not a word to her, and a ripple of unease slithered down her spine as he continued to watch her. She turned then, ?forgive me, have we met??

He did not respond immediately, and she settled into her comfortable chair, but angled such that she could keep an eye on this one, whose behavior had set her on edge. Her focus was torn between the small screen and the data there and the unsettling male still watching her.

At length, he turned toward her fully, and his eyes seemed to bore through flesh and bone to her very center, ?No, my dear, we have never met.? The voice was cold, utterly devoid of human warmth.

Azjah lifted the glass to her lips, taking a slow sip that caught in her throat at his words. The sensation of having someone peer right through her was as chilling as his tone. She slowly set down the glass before speaking, ?I was hoping I had not forgotten an introduction.?

He folded his arms and stood, moving toward her table with unknown intent, and Azjah watched his approach with growing disquiet, she cleared the screen of the tiny computer without taking her eyes off the man, who paused, ?You have not missed an introduction, my dear. Though it is rude of me to.? He paused, ?Though, I am sure you have heard of me from reputation alone.? He pulled a chair out across from Azjah, settling himself down as he continued to study her, almost as some sort of prey item.

A female voice behind her said to Tara, ?Well, and the Pox was removed I hope.? But the remainder of the discussion was lost as Azjah returned the regard as he settled onto the chair. ?Perhaps you will make proper introductions now then?? She asked the man who had managed to unsettle her. ?I do not believe I have heard you named, only seen you pass through from time to time.?

The smile he gave her was polite and gentlemanly enough, although it could freeze the water in the air if it were given the opportunity. His voice was quiet enough that no one around them would hear except Azjah, ?My name is Travanix.?

A ripple of chill threaded through her veins at the tone, despite its quiet volume, ?Travanix, I am Azjah Caer.?

He leaned back into his chair slightly, still with that unnerving study, ?A pleasure, my dear. I have seen your name in the directorship of the museum, have I not??

Azjah relaxed slightly at that, and gave him a bit of a smile, ?I am one of the patrons of the museum, yes, but I leave the direction to those more knowledgeable.? As a patron, she did spend a lot of time there, but the daily business was not something she was competent at, and she had other businesses to worry about.

Travanix nodded, that same dark/polite smile upon his lips. He reached into a pocket on his utility belt and pulled out something that remained clenched within his fist as he spoke, ?Tell me then, what makes a lovely patron such as yourself come here??

Azjah found that an odd query, the Inn was the local place to gather, ?Usually to meet someone, or a public venue for negotiations or deals.?

?And tell me, dear lady, are you meeting someone tonight?? His voice was soft, yet seemed to have a hollow or echoing quality to it as he spoke.

Azjah gave a small shake of her head, ?Not by plan. I had an appointment cancelled.? She glanced at his closed hand, and could not see anything within. Gabriel?s low growl warned her that this one had her harm in his mind and she had felt his chill before. ?Are you a regular visitor to the museum Mr. Travanix??

Rhaine stood and walked toward her, the odd black hemispheres on her head gave off a faint glimmer as she said she would enjoy it and she sat down. Azjah offered to have something brought for her to drink, but the vampires stuck with just the water she had carried with her. She rubbed a solid black stone bracelet absent-mindedly, ?at least not in the nearest two days.?

Azjah nodded and asked how she had been. She hadn?t seen Rhaine out and about in RhyDin of late. Rhaine shrugged, ?More or less alive.? It was a quixotic comment that drew a raised brow from Azjah, who commented that she hoped it was more alive rather than less.

Rhaine gave her a puzzled look, ?Quite an interesting thing to say about a vampire.?

Azjah chuckled at that, ?the more alive you are, the less temptation I should think.?

That elicited a soft chuckle from Rhaine, ?Sort of. Vit and I are quite busy with what you may call database synchronization.?

Azjah nodded at that, she had met Rhaine?s brother Vitus, and had liked the man instantly, ?How is your brother? It sounds like you have both been rather busy then.?

Rhaine sipped the water, ?well, he was quite surprised by some news, which is quite natural. And, well, he?s been busy.?

Ajzah lifted a brow, ?Good news?? The black ribbon slid soundlessly between her fingers as they talked.

Rhaine smiled that enigmatic smile of hers, ?old news. You know, when you leave younger sisters alone for a long time, they tend to get a personal life.?

Azjah chuckled at that, ?Well, I never had a sibling, but I believe I catch your point.? Just as Rhaine and Artemus had earlier surprised Azjah, she could well imagine Vitus? surprise as well.

Rhaine continued, with perhaps just a hint of bitterness, ?plus, certain political crap that makes Vitus seriously annoyed. I realize now how problematic it was for Eldritch to keep him controlled.?

After sipping the scotch, Azjah nodded, ?Somehow, I do not believe that I would like to see Vitus seriously annoyed.? In fact, the thought of Vitus seriously angered was just plain frightening.

?Precisely,? Rhaine concurred. ?I used to be explosive, but never anything similar to brother.? Rhaine noticed as Azjah slid the black ribbon into a pocket, ?Something interesting, or sad news??

Panther moved down from the upper hall, stopping at the landing at the top of the stairs where he leaned against the hand rail and took a look around the common room of the Inn. Azjah gave him a quick wave as she removed the black ribbon from her pocket, ?It was a gift from Travanix. He is hoping to find an outlet to sell it. Though why me, I cannot say.?

Panther returned the wave with a nod before making his way down the stairs.

?Ribbons, or fabric?? Rhaine?s attention focused on the shining black silk.

?He said ribbon,? and Azjah laid it onto the table, gently smoothing it out, almost with a reverent touch.

Rhaine shrugged, ?I would think twice before dealing with him. But that is me. You know, it?s a paranoia.?

Azjah nodded, ?He makes me very uncomfortable,? and that was not an understatement.

She nodded with a slight smile, ?I understand. I have met him before. Not a very pleasant, but it was a curious, encounter. At least for someone with a permanent death wish.?

Azjah studied the black silk ribbon a moment, ?I cannot place a finger on what it is precisely, but being in his presence is like coming into contact with something purely evil and malevolent.?

Rhaine gave her a slight smile, ?that is not a thing that bothers me.? In fact, Rhaine?s world served a deity of great evil if the tales about Asmodeus were true.

Azjah?s eyes remained on the ribbon, ?It does me apparently.?

?In any case, you know you need to be suspicious.? Rhaine commented, then added, ?I would say suspicious in the nth degree, with n well greater than 1.?

Azjah nodded absently, ?sound advice based on my initial reactions to him.? But the bit of black ribbon remained between her fingers.

Rhaine gave her a wry smile, ?Not a very unique advice of course. Its only logical. From another point of view, I have given you no reason to trust my words either.?

Azjah lifted her gaze to Rhaine?s, ?If one trusts their instincts, they are usually safer.? The problem was that too often, instincts were ignored.

?Usually. That?s the key word.? She took another sip of water.

Azjah wanted to change the subject, ?so this synchronization you were speaking of, it is completed??

Rhaine nodded, ?Yes, we always file lengthy reports when we do anything. Vitus has the habit too. This way there is less chance that one messes up things for another.?

?Of course,? Rhaine replied, ?but the origin of these resources is something I?m not to discuss.?

So she had found a sensitive spot then, the funding for the Temple of Asmodeus, Azjah made a note of that point. ?Understood. How goes the research? Promising, or still hunting for that elusive item??

Rhaine told her that the research would be a headache, ?too many people are stuck with traditionalist definitions of a human. And really weird with silicon and boron organics.?

Azjah nodded, ?I would think flexible thinking would be a prerequisite for such research.? The notion of people being stuck in a rigid mindset precluded any progress in new fields as far as she was concerned.

Rhaine nodded, ?for implementing it, yes. And absolute flexibility? it?s the least problem for me.?

Azjah shook her head, ?that sounds like fascinating, but potentially very frustrating research.? It almost sounded more like pure research for the sake of research rather than something tangible and on the near horizon. But, without pure research, some of the greatest leaps forward would never have happened in her life time.

Rhaine gave her a dreamy smile, the first Azjah had ever seen from the vampires, ?frustrating? Never.?

?You truly enjoy it, and it shows,? Azjah commented and then Rhaine snapped out of her dreamy smile with a slightly embarrassed look, adding that no one in RhyDin would need her work anyway. Azjah frowned at her, ?What makes you say that??

Rhaine turned her eyes on Azjah, ?where would you find someone wishing to chew on a salad from Cryslonian vegetables??

Since Azjah had never heard of such a thing, she shrugged with a soft chuckle, ?I have no clue?.from Cryslonia??

Rhaine did not return the humor, ?Cryslon. I?d say the rear end of civilized worlds. Silicon organics.?

Azjah?s brow lifted, she?d heard about silicon life forms, but had never met any, ?I have heard of them, but never met one.?

Rhaine chuckled then, ?One implementable thing is becoming nearly immune to most toxic substances. But of course this part is a security issue. I?ve met some folks from Cryslon, a couple of hundred years ago.?

Azjah was used to security points and did not press her, ?And what are they like?? Description of the Cryslons shouldn?t be a secret and she was truly curious.

Rhaine thought a moment, ?I would describe them as a radial-symmetric and beautifully colored. They can hardly stand high pitched voices, and their own voices are deep and partially infrasonic. A very interesting and complex metabolism.?

?Fascinating,? was about all Azjah could say at that point. She had a mental image, but somehow she doubted it was anything like the Cryslons Rhaine had met.

?They were,? Rhaine commented. ?Keyword ? were.?

Azjah sipped her scotch as she reiterated the past tense. ?Were??

Azjah smiled at Wil, ?Will any of you be going to the Beltane celebration?? She was curious to know if this was a big celebration, or well attended. The whole thing was an unknown, and Dyson was busily researching it for her.

Scarlet raised a brow at Wil?s question, ?It was fabulous! Met some interesting fellows,? and she chuckled at the memories of the Zwerg.

Wil sat down in the chair between Azjah and Rhaine, settling in as Rhaine realized that what she?d been to last year was also a Beltane Celebration. Wil smiled, or perhaps it was a bit of a smirk, ?That?s good to hear Scarlet. Lady Caer always gives interesting journey?s on that Star Dragon.?

Azjah gave Rhaine a smile, ?Ah, and that is where you had to dance?? That query brought a shudder of revulsion from Rhaine as she nodded yes. ?Does that mean you will not be going this year Rhaine?? Azjah was truly hoping someone at the table would be going besides she and Wil. And since Rhaine had already been to one, she would be perfect. But Rhaine gave her an emphatic ?no?.

Azjah gave Wil an oh so innocent smile, ?I do try to please.? He simply gave her his bad-boy smile that spoke volumes.

Scarlet looked at Azjah, ?So how is the vamp??

Azjah had to chuckle, ?Gabriel is fine.? She knew Scarlet was aware that Gabriel is not a vampyre, but she played on the old prejudices.

Rhaine commented then that she would be keeping out of the entire area of the Beltane festival. As far as possible.?

Wil looked at Rhaine, ?Lady Caer is honoring me by accompanying me to Beltane.? Wil lifted a brow at Rhaine?s comment, ?Oh, it can?t be that bad, can it?? Suddenly Wil?s expression grew worried.

Azjah chuckled again as Rhaine made it clear that she had no interest in that social event, then she looked at Wil, ?However, I have to find out what the dress code is for this event.? The last thing she wanted to do was arrive completely inappropriately attired.

Wil told her that he thought it was rather informal, and about then, Lana gave him another surreptitious glance. But Wil saw it, and returned her glance. She gave him a smile and then downed a gulp of her drink.

?Rhaine? What did people wear last year?? Azjah decided that if she couldn?t get Rhaine to join them, she would at least pick her brains about the previous year?s celebration.

Rhaine shrugged, ?Anything. Art and me were even unarmored.?

Wil turned his attention back to Rhaine, ?Well, if you were to go again, what would you wear this time??

Azjah glanced Scarlet?s direction, ?What about you Scarlet? Will you be going to the Beltane festival??

Scarlet gave her a teasing smile, ?Ye could wear one of my frocks.? Then she glanced at those around the table, ?What exactly is this event??

Azjah quirked a brow at Scarlet as she remembered the clothing Scarlet had worn for their flight to the Large Magellanic Cloud, ?Like that blouse you wore under the corset?? She never had figured out how that worked.

Rhaine considered Wil?s query, ?hmm, something comfortable enough in any case.?

Wil smiled at Scarlet, ?It?s a celebration of the Spring, new life, that kind of thing.?

Azjah gave him a very startled look, what he was describing sounded very much like a fertility festival! ?A what??

He paused and quickly amended, ?A celebration, of, the end of Winter, I think.?

Azjah chuckled then as he amended his description, ?End of Winter? Alrighty.? Somehow though, she suspected that the pagan holiday of Beltane would indeed have moments dedicated to the fertility gods.

Scarlet asked when the celebration would be held, and Azjah told her that it was Friday and Saturday.

Then a bit of an imp inspired Azjah as she gave Wil a serious glance, ?What does one wear for the end of winter besides flowers?? She wondered if he would sense her meaning.

He gave her a smile, one that said he?d never seen her not look good before winking as she approved an End of Winter Celebration. ?You would look wonderful in flowers.?

Scarlet took a sip of her whiskey, and Azjah realized that Wil had nothing to drink, ?Wil? What would yo like to drink?? She blushed at his compliment, or perhaps the path her mind wandered before thanking him for the charming worlds.

He desired only coffee for the moment, and Azjah sent a serving lad to the bar for coffee. Wil gave her a nod of thanks as the coffee arrived, ?Actually, since it will be outside, I think comfortable clothes, flat shoes, and something to keep off any chill at night would be appropriate dress for Beltane.?

Scarlet looked up at Xenograg and extended her hand as they were introduced. Wil and Xenograg were reacquainted and Azjah sent a serving lad for some tea since the General had decided to join them. Pleasantries were exchanged and Wil smiled and reseated himself beside Azjah, saying to Xenograg, ?doing pretty well, Xeno, amazingly well, actually.?

Azjah gave Xenograg a warm smile, ?We were just discussing the Beltane festival and going.? Azjah glanced at Scarlet again, ?I can just se you with orchids and baby?s breath in your hair.?

Scarlet pondered, ?I was thinking more of a white dress with black roses.? Which, Wil thought would be lovely. ?The black representing the death of winter, and the white would be the purity of new growth.?

Azjah considered that aspect of the festival, ?Since this is about rebirth, perhaps I can get Koy to do something in shades of green silk?? She certainly hoped Koy could pull this off on such short notice. Wil gave her a quick smile, ?That would be beautiful.? Azjah winked at him, ?Anything Koy makes is stunning.?

Then she smiled at Rhaine, ?I think it?s marvelous you?ll consent to come. Perhaps I can get you to tell me more about your research?? Then she smiled brightly, ?Perhaps Vitus could join you? Would you feel more comfortable with him around, given your concerns over long range open air attacks??

Rhaine equivocated, ?Perhaps, if he can get over here.?

Wil missed another covert glance from Lana, instead asking Rhaine, ?Yes, what is this research you were speaking of?? But Rhaine remained very quiet, preferring not to speak too openly about her research.

Azjah asked Xenograg whether he and Amaltea would be attending the festivities, but he was not certain they could, the events in Barsi would dictate whether they would be available, and he made no promises.

Scarlet and Xenograg were discussing how long he?d been in the city and how many people he knew, and it surprised Azjah how long the General had been in the city. ?I have been in and out of RhyDin for over twenty years, and I do know quite a few people.? The two of them began discussing sword fighting in the Duel of Swords. Xenograg told her that he only dueled Swords, no magic or fists, and Scarlet looked at him, ?I am not very good at Swords.?

At length, Rhaine seemed to pick her words carefully as she finally answered Wil, ?Nothing interesting. Just another project.?

Wil told her that he always was interested in research, and Rhaine shrugged, ?Possibly, Research, well, most of it is dealing with finding a magically-inert solution to problem of compatibility, letting carbon-based humans to consume almost any kind of aliens. Or aliens consume any type of being they choose without getting stomach disorders. Magically active solution would be a cheat and no fun.? Then she gave Wil a fanged smile.

Wil looked at Rhaine, tilted his head and blinked, ?Whoa, that?s quite a research project.?

Rhaine shrugged, ?And who'd care to implement it, Colonel? Most humans would never dare to change themselves.? He replied that she needed to find someone who ?needs? to change for her research.

Scarlet raised a brow at Azjah, ?Will Gabriel be there??

She nodded, ?Yes, he goes where I go.? She didn?t look Wil?s way at that, she wasn?t sure she wanted to see his reaction. Then Azjah added for Scarlet, ?the General has a training dojo in RhyDin.?

Xenograg commented to Scarlet, ?Dueling is a special form of sword fighting. It requires some adjustment from everyone.?

Scarlet gave Azjah a surprised look, ?Oh really? A Dojo?? Then she shifted her attention back to Xenograg. ?Would you please explain??

Azjah nodded, adding that ?Xeno has taught some of the finest duelists in RhyDin.?

Xenograg nodded, ?Yes, used to teach dueling, and other things.? Azjah glanced at Xenograg and his past tense as Scarlet asked if she could join one of his next classes. ?I do not hold regular classes, I have few active students.?

Taneth began moving bottles around, as though searching for something. Finally Azjah asked her if she had lost something. Taneth paused, ?No.? Then returned to her bottle rearranging.

Azjah simply shook her head and glanced again at Wil, ?And what are you wearing Colonel?? He leaned closer and said, ?I think I'll wear something that is stylish, comfortable . . . rather gentlemanly.? She gave him a quick smile, ?Very descriptive, Colonel.? He grinned at her, ?You want to know exactly what I?m wearing?? She chuckled, ?Absolutely.? He gave her a teasing wink, ?I?ll just have to model it.?

Rhaine shrugged again, ?I can?t imagine someone needing to change in this city, they have magic available to them, which is slapdash, but usable.?

Wil disagreed, ?People who need to hide, and some even hate magic.?

Rhaine glanced at him, ?They don?t even look for an elegant magical solution, they just take first thing they can use.?

Scarlet observed that magic was her favorite and Azjah simply shook her head, ?Magic will get you the death penalty on Rigel.?

Rhaine gave a huge blink at that piece of news, ?Another of non-magical places??

Xenograg reached into his topcoat and extracted a small card, offering it to Scarlet, which she took with a smile as he explained that the card had directions to the dojo, and that it was also her access pass. ?Now we need to choose a day and time.? He told Scarlet.

Azjah gave Rhaine a puzzled glance, ?Mentar Station? Where is that Rhaine? Since I need to go home for something important anyway.?

She shrugged, ?You need a map, or a set of coordinates??

Azjah told her that coordinates would be best, and Wil gave her a smile, ?I would love to go with you, if you wouldn?t mind.? She was secretly pleased to hear that, and told him that she would enjoy his company without question. He chuckled, ?good, then it?s a date.? Azjah smiled and told him that they would have to discuss the timing.

Rhaine hesitated a moment, and ?prints out? a card using a palm-size computer like device. ?that?s with wormholes and without them. I doubt you?ll bring a bunch of idiots to attack the place.?

Azjah chuckled, ?No, I would not, but I am curious as to where it lay Rhaine.? She took the card and studied it a moment before secreting it away in a pocket.

Rhaine simply added that Mentar Station was far enough based on the coordinates she gave her.

Azjah agreed, the flight even with the worm holes would be a long one, but a trip there with Rhaine along would be worth the time invested. Rhaine was saying that Mentar Station was not only a long distance away in space, but in culture as well. We established that Mentar Station would allow visitors. But she warned her that there was little of interest to see outside of the blood lines sectors, which were closed. It was still a world of mythical fame, and she wanted to go. Rhaine then offered her assistance in getting around, unless Azjah was leaving right away, which she wasn?t. There was something important she needed to do on Rigel first. And there was simply no telling how long that could take. Rhaine seemed pleased and said, ?Excellent, by that time, the issue I?m trying to resolve would be history.? Azjah knew better than to ask what that meant.

Scarlet and Xenograg were discussing the details of Scarlet?s joining the dojo. Azjah smiled, ?He?s the best Scarlet, you will learn a great deal from him.? Xenograg gave Scarlet permission to call him simply Xenograg, and gave her a disarming smile. Scarlet gave Azjah a beaming smile. Azjah gave her a soft chuckle, ?You?ll be formidable if you learn his tricks of the trade Scarlet.?

At that point, Azjah realized she needed to be going. She had spent much longer at the Inn than she had originally planned. She slid her chair into place at the table, and told them all that she was looking forward to seeing them all at the Beltane festivale. Wil rose as well, and bade them a good evening.

Gabriel moved from the fireplace and a shimmer of movement presaged a clearing to the door. Azjah picked up her valise and walked side by side from the Inn with Wil.

Azjah returned to the Palazzo to find a package from Koy?s boutique. She had actually done it. She?d accepted an invitation from a man who was not her husband. She bit down on her lower lip. She could hear her mother?s voice, and realized that she would have to give in to the pressure from the family attorneys. A trip home was becoming more crucial, but she wouldn?t think about that tonight.

Across town, Wil was nervous, very nervous. He could face a squad of space pirates without flinching, but arriving to pick up Lady Caer had him going over his clothes and hair at least twenty times before he actually left his home. For their first ?date?, he?d chosen to hire an open, ceremonial, white carriage. It had golden yellow trim for the Beltane celebration, and was pulled by a matched team of white Arabians. The carriage was driven by the man who came with the hired carriage. The seats were a deep forest green, very plush fabric. Wil climbed into the carriage, and gave him directions to the Palazzo von Drachen Walde.

The carriage arrived at the Palazzo, and Wil stepped down from the carriage where it had stopped beneath the portico. He told the driver that it would be just a few minutes, and he approached the front entry of the Palazzo. In his hands was a bouquet of red roses. He hadn?t brought them to take to the Beltane festival, but they were meant to signify without words just how special this woman was to him. He knocked on the door with a flock of butterflies battering his stomach.

Dyson had been expecting the arrival of the Colonel, and was happy to see that the man was punctual. The white haired gentleman opened the door promptly.

Wil smiled, ?Good evening, Sir, I?m here for the Lady Caer.?

Dyson nodded, ?Do come in sir, she is in the Great Room I believe. This way, if you please.? Dyson closed the door and led Wil off to the left into a wide expanse with a very large stone fireplace on the opposite wall. Seated at the desk, behind a computer was Azjah. Her attention was focused on the screen before her until Dyson spoke.

Gabriel materialized beside Azjah, and his soulless black eyes locking on Wil the moment Dyson led him into the room.

Wil had never been inside the Palazzo, so he was busy observing the elegance of the place as he walked along. He paused at the entrance and noticed Gabriel first since Azjah was seated at the desk. He had forgotten all about the big man, and he was just a bit disappointed that Gabriel was actually coming along. Then Wil continued further into the room.

Azjah?s pale blue gaze lifted from the screen, the spray of orchids in her hair danced with the movement, and she rose in a smooth motion at his entrance. The clinging green fabric shimmered with her movement as she moved from behind the desk. She took in his appearance with a warm smile, offering her right hand in welcome. The skin modifications briefly drew his attention, but as she spoke, his eyes met hers, ?Colonel, you look wonderfully ready for an evening out of doors.?

Wil barely heard her words, and he nearly dropped the bouquet of red roses to the floor of the Great Room. He was absolutely certain he had never before seen a woman as beautiful as Azjah was this night. He was speechless for a moment as he took in the vision before him. It took him a moment to notice the way the dress was slit up the right side, and he swallowed hard before giving her a slight bow. ?M?lady Caer, you are simply magnificent.? His expression was pure honesty and not a word of flattery.

Azjah colored at his ever so charming compliment, ?I do hope you don?t mind that I fell into the spirit of everything I have read about this festival?? Her left hand nervously tried to smooth out a nonexistent wrinkle in the shimmering fabric. She hadn?t been this nervous in ages.

?Mind?? He nearly stammered, ?I?m, I?m simply,? He broke into a magnificent ?bad-boy? smile, ?Overwhelmed, delighted!? He stepped forward and took her hand in his and ever so softly brushed the back of her hand with a kiss, ?I?ve brought you these roses, but they suddenly look so ordinary.?

The pale alabaster skin was the perfect foil for the ornamental vines, and she dropped into a curtsey worthy of the Rigelian Court as he took her hand. His smile brought one of her own to her lips. She hadn?t had flowers in longer than she could remember.

Wil glanced again at the roses, ?These are for your home, in remembrance of this evening.? He could not stop looking at her, and added, ?Forgive me please if I stare. You are too beautiful for words, Lady Caer.?

Azjah?s pale blue eyes met his, then slid to the roses, ?They are beautiful, thank you.? She leaned closer to savor the sweet, spicy aroma of the velvety petals. ?You could spoil me with such words, Colonel.?

Wil?s smile was infectious, ?It?s only fair, you will be making me the envy of every man at Beltane. Shall we go?? He handed the roses to Dyson for the man to take care of, and put on display in the house, then held out his arm to Azjah, his voice was warm, ?I?ve been so looking forward to this night.?

Dyson departed for another area of the Palazzo with the roses, leaving Gabriel to show them to the door. Azjah gave Wil a radiant smile as she curled her arm around his, ?I am looking forward to this night Colonel, perhaps more than you may know.? She was truly looking forward to spending time with him, ?Please, shall we??

They exited the Palazzo, and walked to the carriage that was awaiting them, ?It?s such a beautiful evening. Perfect for such an event.? The driver heard the door open and hopped down to open the carriage as they approached. Wil stood off to the side to assist Azjah?s entry into the carriage.

Azjah paused to study the white carriage with pure delight, ?this is marvelous!? She?d never ridden in such a mode of transportation, and it was so poetic. She picked up the long side of the dress with one hand, and allowed Wil to hand her into the carriage.

Wil gave her a grin, ?well, I thought it might be a little tacky to land a space craft on top of the May Pole.? He laughed and gave her a conspiratorial wink. He was delighted in her reaction to the carriage. When she was seated, he climbed into the carriage and sat next to her, waiting for Gabriel to join them. But he had already vanished and was making his own way to the Glen.

As Wil climbed into the carriage, Azjah noticed the dragon belt buckle, and flashed him a quick smile, ?Symbology?? Then she laughed merrily, ?True, squashing the May Pole might be frowned upon.?

Wil grinned and shrugged slightly, ?Seemed appropriate at the time.? The carriage pulled out and headed for the Southern Glen as they talked amiably during the ride across the city.

Rhaine wandered in, which surprised Azjah as her friend had expressed an intense dislike for such public gatherings. She was wearing a black, sleek fitting dress with silver trimming. The sleeves widened from the elbow down, which knowing the vampiress was designed to allow her to conceal weapons. Her gray hair was held by a simple black ribbon. She wound her way through the crowd to the far side in search of a place to sit without the press of the guests. Azjah smiled, ?Rhaine! Glad you came.?

Rhaine began with a wave, but it quickly turned into a formal bow. She then gave a fanged smile to Kitty, and a nod to Gabriel.

Wil smiled seeing Rhaine there, ?Hello Rhaine, I?m so glad you came.?

Trinala was in her ?big? form, all five foot and one inches. Still, Erin had a difficult time putting a crown on the bouncy one?s head. She was giggling madly, ?May Queen!?

Rena nodded to Rhaine, then to Wil and Azjah. Azjah gave her friend a smile, ?Good evening Rena.?

Gabriel gave each woman a brief nod of greeting as he moved to be within easy reach of the Marchioness. Rena lifted a glass in greeting to the Carpathian.

Trinala?s voice carried across the glen, ?Yay for Loxy! Green Man!? She was clapping happily as he was crowned.

Elessaria was there in a stunning blue gown that simply looked impossible, but was absolutely stunning. She gave Azjah and Wil a nod as she applauded the crowning of the Green Man.

Wil noticed Kitty in a dress, and nearly failed to recognize her as he walked the grounds with Azjah. He slid his free hand atop hers where she curled her arm with his. The paused as Erion announced, ?The May Queen and Green Man!? Trinala beamed and reached up to rescue the twig from Loxley?s hair like a pro, and then she kissed his cheek.

There was a shift to one of the giant Red Oaks of the Glen. It moved, almost as if it was parting ways from its twin next to it, to reveal the one that was standing there behind it. And there, as promised, was one. He was dressed in a patterned white suit, that pattern being of what appeared to be scales. Those scales ran the length of the outfit, even down to the cuff of the pants that he wore. His feet, however, were bare, and his hair was flowing freely in the night breeze. There was no shirt to go under that suit jacket. No, only the exquisitely cut and patterned jacket and trousers were worn. Lord Momus moved from between the Red Oaks.

Kitty glanced over toward the trees, then smirks and mumbles to Rhaine, ?And it seems someone else is showing his true colors.?

Wil and Azjah paused to watch the ceremonial lighting of the Beltane bonfire, and Wil looked upon Azjah. She had by far all of his attention this evening. He hoped she wouldn?t catch him gazing at her, for he was certain his expression belied his feelings.

Elessaria covered her eyes with her free hand, but peeked between her fingers to watch the pair light the fire. The concept of Trinala wielding a burning torch seemed to elicit the same reaction from several others gathered.

Wil spotted Lana and bade her a good evening until Azjah glanced up at him, ?Does not Trinala make a lovely queen??

Trinala grinned, ?Okay!? She grabbed Loxley?s hand, she made then toward the torches, and picked one up and handling the other, unlit, to Loxley.

Trinala held her torch down to the bonfire timber, hopping in place as she waited for the fire to light. Loxley was beside her, ?Take care not to burn yourself, Queen.? He smiled warily at the pixie, he held his torch to the wood, helping to start that fire a little bit quicker.?

Wil looked into Azjah?s pale blue eyes and smiled as she remained at his side, taking a small step closer to his side. Her gaze held the lighting of the bonfire in rapt attention as she realized she was still very glad that the old easy were not the protocol for the evening. Then she slid her glance up at Wil, ?Will they have the Wicker Man??

He gave her a puzzled look, ?Wicker Man? What does the Wicker Man do??

Jolyon turned toward her then, ?I thought that was at the festival of autumn. Have I mixed my traditions?? He was willing to admit, he just might have, there being so many that dance about in his mind, and he was sincerely looking for clarification.

Azjah glanced at Jolyon, ?Perhaps I have confused myself with the Druidic festivities.? She was not 100% certain which festival had the Wicker Man now that Jolyon had questioned it.

He nodded as he considered his own frequency of setting one into the other, ?Ah, yes, sometimes they can be so similar.?

Trinala glanced at Loxly, ?I?ve never burned myself before. Do you think it hurts?? She watched as her torch was taken away, and commented how pretty the fire was. Tucker was busy with an large bag of charcoal as he prepared a grill for barbequing. The mesquite smoker box was snugged in along with the charcoals. Loxley glanced at Trinala, ?I know for a fact that it hurts.? He glanced at his own torch, uncertain where to put it. Then he grinned at her, ?You did very well Queen, do you know what it is we must do now??

Gabriel did not look at Rhaine as he said, ?indeed, it would seem that magic is lacking tonight.? It almost appeared as though he was talking to no one in particular.

Rhaine shrugged, ?I do not doubt that local spell casters would entertain the public once they try the alcohol.? Gabriel then turned his focus back onto the vampiress, ?I was not speaking of ?other? spellcasters Rhaine.? Then he added, ?It is not my concern, but I do confess curiosity.?

Rhaine hid her hands within the long sleeves of her black dress, then crossed them over her chest, ?I doubt you would enjoy the story Gabriel, especially one so unfitting for the occasion.?

Azjah turned her eyes once more to Wil, ?Well, according to my reading, the prisoners of the Celts were placed into a wicker figure, and the bonfire, when it was lit, ignited the Wicker Man, and the people inside were offerings to the gods. And since this festival is about rebirth and propitiation of the deities?.? Her voice trailed off.

Wil lifted a brow at her, ?I think I should have studied up on this Beltane festival.? His gaze slid from the beauty of the orchids in her hair, down along the path of the vines as they meandered over her exposed skin. Then he nodded at her explanation for the Wicker Man, ?That makes sense, so, who wants to be the Wicker Man??

Azjah glanced at Jolyon, ?The old cultures can seem very far removed from us, do they not??

Will walked Azjah a bit closer to the bonfire, along with Jolyon, and he admired the way the glow of the fire played on her.

Jolyon looked over his shoulder at her with a smile, ?In some ways, very. And yet, sometimes it is like they hang just upon our shoulder and whisper into our ears.? Sometimes the old ways still resonated with a modern world.

Azjah chuckled at Wil, ?I don?t think anyone ?wanted? to be there, but the giant wicker figure must have been an impressive offering.? She was happy to be closer to the bonfire, actually rather thankful for the warmth it was just beginning to emit as the flames steadily grew in strength. She brought her other hand to wrap around Wil?s arm as they stood there soaking up the heat as it radiated outward from the heart of the flames.

Wil took her hand into his own, then softly spoke, ?thank you for being here with me, Lady Caer.? His smile was sincerity itself, and held no hint of the bad-boy teasing. Then he moved a half step closer to whisper, ?you are so beautiful.?

Azjah melted inside. Such words she?d not heard such compliments in nearly two years. She smiled up at him, ?Thank you for inviting me, I would not have come otherwise.? Then she gave him an impish smile, ?And who could resist that bad-boy smirk??

Kairee must have heard the last bit as she winked at Azjah, but said nothing more. The message though was clear. Azjah gave her one in return to acknowledge the message.

Scarlet walked into the Glen wearing a white gown with black roses in her hair. She glanced around and then took a seat alone and ordered a small glass of gin. Her hair was up in ringlets and the ubiquitous hat that usually covered her eyes was missing. Then she spotted Azjah and rose with her glass, making her way toward her, ?Evening? she said.

Antonio?s voice rang out over the Glen, ?Who is next to support a worthy cause??

Azjah smiled at Wil, ?I would call that a fair exchange.? She glanced at Antonio, ?the donation is a thousand silvers?? She smiled and waves as Scarlet joined them.

Antonio stood and bowed to Azjah, ?You honor me, Lady.? The donation is whatever you wish. Azjah had intended to match what Wil had paid for her kiss to support the orphanage and with Wil?s 100 silvers she added enough platinum to make it an even one thousand. He moved to stand just in front of Azjah as she leaned up to brush her lips lightly to Antonio?s. There would be no sensational display, and such a chaste kiss would even have been accepted in the Rigelian Courts, unlike the one she had just shared with Wil.

Wil walked up to the booth and set down 200 silver, telling the booth keeper, ?A hundred for Lady Caer?s kiss with Antonio, and dear Queen, one hundred for the honor of kissing you.? Trinala giggled and nodded at Wil as he stood in front of her, inquiring, ?Are you ready, dear May Queen?? Wil smiled and leaned forward, his lips lightly kissing Trin?s, ?Mmm, an honor to kiss such a beautiful May Queen,? he told her as he straightened once more.

As Trinala thanked him, he bowed, ?My pleasure, my Queen.? Then he turned back toward Azjah.

Scarlet waited for a remark on her black roses, but Azjah kept her comment to herself. The beautiful witch did look stunning, even if the black did not suit Azjah?s idea of spring. Scarlet tilted her head, ?so, what have I missed??

Azjah winked at her, ?the crowning of the May Queen, the naming of the Green Man, the lighting of the bonfire, and the kissing booth.?

Scarlet smirked, ?sounds like I missed all of it.?

Elessaria bade Wil and Azjah a good evening, ?Best wishes for a lovely Beltane,? she told them with a warm smile. Azjah was still in the dark about what had transpired between them, and why the wedding had been canceled, but outwardly at least, no animosity seemed to pass between them.

Azjah flashed a warm smile at Eless, and stepped back, and away from Antonio for the next kisser. ?A good Beltane to you as well Eless.? Then she reached for Scarlet?s arm, ?I am so pleased you could come.?

Wil moved up behind Azjah, and slipped his arms round her waist, still smiling over his kiss as well as her whisper. His gaze met Scarlet?s, ?Hello Scarlet!? He welcomed her to the festivities with genuine pleasure at seeing her. ?So good to see you here.?

Tara waved to most everyone as she arrived, and Trinala?s voice rang out clearly, ?KISSES FOR CHARITY!?

Wil waved toward Tara with a smile as did Azjah. ?Good evening Tara.? He moved closer, feeling the warmth from Azjah?s body, and inhaled the unique spicy ginger scent of her flesh, and silently wished the night would never end.

Azjah glanced at Wil and Scarlet, ?Shall we find a place to sit?? They both agreed and they found a table near the festivities and the kissing booth as Tasslehofl chuckled and stepped into the very back of the line for Antonio rather than Trinala. Wil held out a chair for Azjah first, and then Scarlet. He seated himself between the two women, and his left hand moved up and gently cupped Azjah?s bare right shoulder as he slid his arm around behind

Kitty smirked at him, ?Trying to ensure you molest his lips before I do?? Lord Momus grinned at Kitty over his shoulder, ?quite right!?

Antonio?s voice called for the next kisser in line as Kitty gave a dramatic sigh, placing her hand upon her chest, ?My own man would rather kiss another man before he kisses me, I?m forever?. Damaged.?

Tass grinned, ?Your with me, of course you are,? Then he leaned back and pulled her down to steal a kiss from Kitty. When he finished, he told Kitty, ?hun, my eyes have been kissing you since I walked in tonight.?

Scarlet sat down with a smile, and Azjah asked her how it felt to be back aboard her own vessel. Scarlet looked at her, ?Well, I don?t have anyone to fight with.? She chuckled and glanced at Gabriel, who remained aloof among the trees, simply watching the shenanigans of the celebrants. ?But, it is home, and I?m looking forward to having you as my guest this summer.?

Scarlet looked for all the world as though she wanted her hat rather than the flowers in her hair, but she glanced at Wil, ?What kind of wine is that?? As the moved her glance toward her own empty cup.

Wil smiled, ?A cabernet, may I refill your cup?? She nodded and Wil rose to retrieve her a glass of the cabernet. ?I?ll be right back.? Scarlet looked down at her hands, lost in her own thoughts.

Tass leaned down to nip Kitty?s neck, and as he straightened, the white scaled suit vanished. He had mentioned earlier that he?d come in more traditional Beltane spirit, and there he was, painted in ancient designs with blue woad, naked as the day he was born.

As Wil returned, Azjah leaned lightly against his arm and sipped her win, ?Didn?t the original festival run the livestock over the coals to assure fecundity??

He flashed her a smile, ?We don?t have livestock, do dragons count??

At that moment, Azjah caught sight of Tass and dropped her glass of wine to the grass as she registered that the man was stark naked in public. He was moving through the crowd as she exclaimed, ?Lord Momus!!?

Wil glanced the direction she was looking and missed the glass he was pouring for Scarlet in the process.


Tass then altered his direction and proceeded directly toward Azjah with nothing but a smile on. She covered her eyes and began to blush furiously. She heard Wil mutter softly, ?gotta love an old man who?s not ashamed of his body.?

Tass grinned when he saw Azjah cover her eyes, ?something in your eye, hun??

She peeked between her fingers up at him, ?More than I expected,? she commented dryly.

Wil managed to get a glass filled for Scarlet and handed it to her as she glanced the direction of Gabriel and Kairee spatting. She looked up at Wil and thanked him as she raised the glass, she spotted Tass running naked behind the red liquid. ?Oh dear,? she managed to choke out.

Tass laughed and leaned down, giving Azjah a kiss on the cheek, ?tradition,? he told her, by way of an explanation for his current state.

Wil chuckled and softly sang ?Blue Moon? which drew a bubble of laughter from her as she dropped her head to Wil?s shoulder so she would not have to look at the naked Tass. o/~ Blue Moon, you saw me standing alone, without a dream in my heart, without a love of my own?.o/~

Azjah used her free hand as a screen, and told Wil that she would never be able to forget this night after seeing Tass all painted blue. Wil wrapped his arms around her, ?to the trauma center we go.? But tears of laughter began to slip down her cheeks as she peeks out to see where Tass had gone next.

Scarlet likewise looked down quickly, but the naked man, who was even now right beside her, turned to Scarlet, then gave an impish smile to Wil, almost promising to sit down in Wil?s lap. Scarlet attempted to scoot her seat away from Tass as she giggled with embarrassment.

Wil read the threat of a promise in Tass?s eyes and scooted closer to the table in an attempt to preclude having an old dragon seat himself in his lap. But the wily old dragon was too quick, and he found himself that threatened seat on Wil?s lap as he looked at Scarlet. ?No need to be embarrassed, my lady, ?tis traditional, and in truth, this was how the first was celebrated.?

Wil hopped up and unceremoniously dumped Tass back onto his own feet, ?Hey! I can?t take that much stimulation, Tass!?

Azjah was blushing crimson, ?Calling a duel for him will never be the same.? Scarlet stood quickly and walked toward the refreshments, leaving her wine behind in the process, but she was laughing at the old one?s antics. Azjah shook her head, ?How will I call a duel for you ever again without remembering this scene??

Wil gave Tass a wary look, ?It?s the dragon design on my jeans, should never have done that.?

Tass grinned, ?we could get you naked to call.? And then he was off before she could retaliate.

Azjah was laughing so hard she was crying, but she managed to call after him, ?I would say that?s not in the cards.?

Scarlet stood apart, waiting for Tass to gain some shame, but she was giggling as well, then she added, ?I have seen bigger??. Fools.? The pause right before ?fools? was telling.

Azjah glanced at Scarlet, ?well, he is correct, it WAS done that way, and leave it to a dragon to remember!?

Azjah gave her a wry smile, ?Hoping the formalities can be approved quickly.? She didn?t want to go into the purpose of the trip, not just yet. She glanced again at Wil, who seemed to be eager to accompany her to Rigel. She added by way of explanation, ?But these things can be devilishly tricky.?

Scarlet didn?t push the issue, but rather looked around before asking if she was the only one who had come without a date. Azjah and Wil both said no nearly simultaneously, and Azjah reminded her that one of the purposes of the Beltane celebration was for singles to come and meet. But Scarlet didn?t seem convinced. But, she changed the subject, ?You know you will have to keep all those machines at home?.?

Azjah gave her a puzzled look, ?which ones??

Scarlet smiled, ?For your own safety, and mine. All but the guns, you may need those.?

When Azjah queried ?all?, Scarlet laughed, ?All? she reiterated. Wil abruptly grew interested in their conversation.

Gabriel was still trading barbs with Kairee, ?Are you finding what you hoped for from the mine??

She gave him an enigmatic smile, ?It?s been lucrative.?

Gabriel offhandedly added, ?Your dwarves eat a great deal.?

Kairee winked at him, ?They always work twelve hour days digging through the mountain, I?ve heard that can work up an appetite.?

Gabriel groused, ?They work, they eat, they grumble.? Then he met her eyes again, ?I am told there was a great deal of excitement this evening.? There had been an exceptional sapphire discovered, and he wondered if she?d been told yet.

Azjah caught sight of an hour glass and knew she needed to head for home soon. She looked at Scarlet, ?That might be difficult for some things Scarlet.?

She shrugged, ?It is your choice. I am just trying to prevent any problems.?

Azjah glanced at Wil, ?I believe perhaps we should return to the Palazzo.? Then it dawned on her why Scarlet wanted her to leave her technology behind, ?The crew will object?? A wave of exhaustion slammed into her as the wine began to take its toll.

Wil slid his arm around her shoulders, ?We can leave now if you like.?

Scarlet?s tanned features smiled, ?No, not at all, just try to get their filthy hands on your goods.? She gave Azjah a concerned look, ?Are you alright??

Azjah shifted in the seat, and gave Wil a nod, ?If the driver is ready, I am as well.? She smiled at Scarlet, ?I am alright Scarlet, but wine is not my strong point.? In fact, the red wine had made her quite sleepy, unlike the scotch that she usually drank.

Wil looked over and saw the coach sitting where they had left it, with the driver dozing inside. ?Looks like he?s ready,? he told her with a grin.

Azjah excused herself from her friend, as did Wil and they headed for their farewells to Trinala. Azjah dropped a formal curtsey to Trinala, ?You are a lovely Queen Trinala, and we request permission to depart your celebration for the evening.? Trinala beamed, apparently not used to being asked for permission to leave her presence, but Azjah and Wil both understood Court protocol, and gave her every courtesy associated with her title for the festivities. And one never, ever left a party before the Royal attendee. Wil then spoke, ?With your leave, Your Majesty.?

She rose, ?You have my permission, and I wish you well for the eve and the season? Wil smiled at her and bowed low. Azjah and Wil linked arms, took several steps back before turning around because you never turn your back on the Royal Presence before approaching the carriage, where Wil helped Azjah back into the lovely white transport. Eless waved them a good night, as did Antonio. The moment Azjah was settled onto the plush green cushions, she could have closed her eyes and fallen asleep, but Wil climbed in beside her, pulling the carriage blanket over their legs in the cool night air, sliding one arm around her for warmth, and she discarded the notion completely.

Azjah sighed and took a long sip of the scotch. ?You are absolutely correct Gabriel, and yet for the first time since Klinton left me to search for news of his mother, I find companionship and enjoyment with another man. It has been two years Gabriel; two long, painful years with no one to share the joys of life.?

?Then do it right. Tell the man you are not free to be with him like this right now. Tell him why you are going to Rigel.? He paced four or five steps across the room as a panther poised to spring upon prey, ?I am not telling you not to live and love Marchioness. I am telling you to leave no snarls that will cause you grief in the future.?

Azjah lifted pale blue eyes to him then, and with no more to say between them, Gabriel vanished, leaving her alone with her thoughts.


The second night of the Beltane festivities in the glen saw Wil arrived once more with the hired carriage at the Palazzo. The ride to the Glen was entirely too short in Azjah?s mind as she was enjoying the time they were spending in the carriage, moving along at the comfortable pace of the horses, wrapped in their own world. Gabriel had taken to simply meeting them at the Glen rather than riding along, which gave Azjah at least a few precious moments to herself.

Wil was still laughing about the events of the previous evening, and savoring the feel of Azjah?s hand in his own. He?d come for her dressed in a brown sport shirt, matching slacks, a gray sport jacket with designer watch and shades. The gray was a deeper, richer shade than the almost silvery silk of Azjah?s dress, which was slit up one side nearly to the hip. The sleeveless bodice conceded a thin strap that draped off the shoulder. Her hair was up in a braided chignon, with the oncidium orchids and 3 platinum picks.

As she took the offered hand to disembark from the carriage, she smiled, ?I do wonder how our May Queen is holding up.?

He let his hand linger a moment on her waist as she alighted from the carriage, ?Trin has a lot of stamina, I?m sure she?s doing well.?

?And her Green Man? Loxley looked rather worn out last evening.? She chuckled and linked her arm with Wil as they headed across the grass. Wil conceding that Loxley was probably exhausted just trying to keep up with Trinala.

Rhaine spotted Azjah and Wil and quietly muttered ?oh no? as she had hoped to watch the celebraton unnoticed. She stepped deeper into shadow as they approached the festivities.

Azjah spotted Kairee and gave her a wave, and Wil greeted Rena as they found a table. They heard Trinala?s voice, ?I am Trinala! This is Silas. He isn?t my Green Man. He would have been, but Loxy is him instead.? Then she gave a little moue as she hadn?t seen her Green Man for this evening yet.

Azjah glanced Trinala?s direction at hearing her voice, and before she sat down, glanced up at Wil, who was waving to Taneth and Amber, ?Shall we go make our obeisance to Her Majesty??

He smiled and agreed that it would be the right thing to do, and led her across the grass toward Trinala. He stepped up to her, and gave her an elegant bow, ?God save thee, Your Majesty. May all the blessings of Beltane be yours.?

Trinala smiled widely as she was happily surrounded, ?Hi Wil!?

Azjah greeted the Queen and Wil told her that she was most beauteous for this evenings events. Trinala fairly beamed. ?Thank you! You both look splendid as well.?

Wil bowed again, ?Thank you Trin, We are honored by your words.? Azjah gave the May Queen another curtsey before they stepped back to allow her to greet her other guests. As they made their way back to their table, Tara blew a kiss once again at Azjah, and she caught it before sending one back to her. Wil?s hands slid along Azjah?s bare arms, ?Are you warm enough, m?lady??

Matthew and Koy arrived shortly after Azjah and Wil had, and Koy appeared in a swish of peridot green silk, the one shoulder neckline meant to draw the eye up. The hemline barely brushed her thigh, but the dress was left to flow more than hug her figure. She had on heels, and jewelry, but the best accessory of the night was the Governor on her arm. Matthew walked in beside her, but it was Koy that everyone noticed.

Wil spoke up, ?Governor Simon, good evening, it is so good to see you under less stressful circumstances.? He then smiled at Koy, ?Good evening Koy.?

Matthew nodded at them both, ?Colonel Savage, Azjah.?

Azjah bristled slightly at his failure to use her title, but smiled, ?Good evening Governor, I?m very happy to see you here tonight.?

Wil moved a bit closer to Koy, speaking softly, ?the dress you made for Azjah, I?ve never seen a dress so beautiful.?

Koy was getting good at being the Governor?s wife, she tucked Wil?s comment about stressful times away to ask Matt about later instead of blurting out the question now. Then she smiled at Wil, ?Thankee, though my works are really only as good at the one?s wearin? ?em.?

Rena had gotten quiet and scanned the crowd as Azjah gave her a brief wave, then she?d heard Koy?s comment and smiled, ?You are truly a miracle worker.? How Koy had done it remained a mystery, but she had managed to pull off one of the most sensational gowns Azjah had ever owned.

Wil grinned at Koy, ?Well, the Lady Caer was indeed breathtaking,? his gaze slid over Azjah?s form in the pale silver-grey silk tonight, ?as she always is.?

Matthew asked Wil if they were having a pleasant evening so far, and both agreed that they were enjoying the festivities. Wil added, ?It?s been a wonderful evening, Governor. I?m so glad that you and your wife could be here tonight.? To which Matthew commented, ?We just arrived, any recommendations on what to check out??

Azjah turned to study the events in the Glen, ?the wine is a fine vintage for a start, from there, it all depends on whether you like water or strength tonight. Or dancing.? Wil added, ?You should see Trinala, our May Queen, and there is food and drink, and dancing, and I think they are dunking Marc Franco in the pool.?

Matthew glanced at Koy, ?You prefer water, strength, or dancing?? Koy opted immediately for dancing.

Azjah sipped her wine and smiled up at Wil, ?I do like the way she thinks, and we did miss out on the dancing last evening.? Wil took her free hand in his, ?I like the way you ?both? think.? And he promptly began to head for the dancing and music.

Rhaine had vanished into the crowds, she came to the conclusion that games left her indifferent, strength tests were hardly an idea for a vampire, dunking someone was a weird concept altogether? although, the target practice?. Hmmm? that gave her something to ponder for a time.

Azjah glanced down at her shoes, ?I knew I should have worn heels tonight.? She winked up at Wil. Dancing in flat shoes was not something she?d attempted before.

Wil set their wine glasses upon a free table and grinned at her, ?I don?t think you?ll need heels tonight, my dear.?

As they stepped onto the dance area, she rested her left hand upon his shoulder as they formed their dance frame, ?No?? she asked him with a teasing smile.

He took her right hand in his left, and placed his left hand on her waist and back, prepared to lead their dance in a manner that told her he knew how to dance a formal dance. Her heart skipped a beat when on the one of the beat, he led off with his left foot forward, and she took her mirrored step back, instantly they were flowing with the music in a graceful glide over the grass. Azjah smiled up at him, ?You never said you danced so well.? He never invaded her dance space, yet his body radiated warmth, or at least she attributed the heat to him as he led her through the waltz.

Wil winked at her, ?I learned in military academy. It was an essential class.?

Azjah laughed merrily, ?Dancing?? She couldn?t imagine that a military academy would place any emphasis on the art of dancing.

Wil moved her with the music, finding Azjah to be a perfect dance partner, ?Oh yes, part of being an officer,? he informed her in a quite serious manner.

?To sweep the enemy off their feet?? She queried him playfully. She was thoroughly enjoying being swept around the Glen, the closeness she had with Wil, and the scent of him tantalized her senses. She hadn?t been this close to any male in almost two years, and it was a sensation she decided that she very much enjoyed.

He lowered his head to whisper into her ear, ?also part of being an agent, one never knows what circumstances you?ll find yourself in.? Then he laughed, ?You tease me, but dance is my secret weapon!? Then he pulled her just a bit tighter against him, collapsing their frame into something more intimate.

His comment about being an agent brought her head up sharply, and he grinned down at her, ?they told me if I get captured, just start dancing.?

She closed her eyes and laughed, ?I doubt they meant dancing dancing.?

He gave her a shocked expression, as though such a thought had never crossed his mind before now, ?You know, you might have a point there.? He laughed again, ?No, really, they had extensive dance classes, mandatory no less.?

She shook her lead slightly, ?Well, where ever you learned, the Court requires it, and besides, I do enjoy it.? The grey silk dress was slit to her hip and allowed her the freedom of movement this dance demanded, but it clung and wrapped seductively around her leg before releasing her again. As she reached the end of a turn, she flashed Wil a smile and winked at him before returning to his arms.

He lowered his head so that his face was near her own, ?You are quite accomplished yourself, Azjah.? Then he realized he?d used her first name for the first time, and he sincerely hoped that she was not offended by his familiarity. ?Then we are not so different,? he told her in terms of enjoying dancing, ?they told us that we never know when we?re going to have to dance with royalty, or at a royal ball. The military, especially the I.I.S.C. would not want to be embarrassed by their agents.? He inhaled her fragrance, a mixture of ginger and citrus as his cheek gently brushed against her chignon.

She gave him a warm smile, ?clearly you have been well trained.? She lifted her hand from his shoulder to gently brush his cheek, and as she did so, his deep blue eyes held her own as he whispered, ?does that mean you wouldn?t mind dancing with me again, for example, at other occasions??

A wave of heat washed over her as she canted her head at him, ?I would find that agreeable, Colonel Savage.? In fact, she was thrilled at the possibility.

He smiled as he touched his cheek to her temple, ?I shall have to look for appropriate events. Perhaps the Governor will throw a Governor?s Ball.?

?Perhaps he will,? she agreed, and during a whirl of the dance, she spotted her friend Rhaine making her way toward Tucker at the bar, and she gave her a quick wave.

As the music concluded, Wil stood there a moment with Azjah in his arms, long enough to say how much he enjoyed the contact, but not so long that it would be scandalous. He slid both hands to her back, ?thank you for the lovely dance. I really enjoyed it.?

Azjah retreated a bit, dropping him a curtsey, ?Thank you.?

Koy shook her head, ?Pictures woman! Ye guys gotta start takin? pictures! I can hang ?em on my wall of ?Women Who Never Want Ta Wear Dresses But Look Damn Good In ?Em When They Do.? And Koy stepped into line immediately behind Rhaine to take her shots at Kitty.

Kitty was in mid retort when all three balls smacked into the target and dropped her into the water with a great SPLASH!

?Gotcha? was the only thing Rhaine said as Kitty came to the surface sputtering. Rhaine walked away beaming a smile at Kitty as she left.

Azjah went to retrieve a vodka for Xeric as he joined she and Wil at a table. She handed it to him and gave the men a wink, ?Please do join us Xeric, but I must attempt to put our former Governor into the drink.?

Kitty snickered as she climbed back up onto the platform, dripping hair in her eyes as she wrings out the front of her white tee shirt. Wil watched, grinning that bad-boy grin again, ?Now there?s a sight.?

Koy gave her a sweet smile, ?Ye up fer a lil more charity, Kitty?? Koy was kind enough to ask as she tossed the ball up and down in her hand. Kitty grinned, ?Hit me with your best shot, Fashionista! I can take it.? Koy left a generous tip, ?Ye got it!?

Peredhil spotted Wil as he wandered through the crowd, and made his way toward him, calling out, ?Evening Wil!? But his expression said he as not surprised to see the Colonel surrounded by beautiful women. Wil gave him a jaunty wave in return, ?Good to see you again, glad you could make it here.? The two chatted for a few minutes before Peredhil moved on.

Azjah flashed Wil a smile, ?You did not volunteer for this event.? Wil gave her a surprised look, ?Me?? She winked at him, ?Oui, vous.? Then she glanced again at Kitty, ?Will you be dunking Kitty tonight??

Wil laughed, ?You?re kidding, you ARE kidding, right?? Suddenly he seemed a trifle nervous at her observation. Azjah took a sip of her wine and flashed Wil a quick smile. ?Oh, I might be tempted to toss a ball or two at you.? He gave her a very, very bad-boy grin then, ?Oh, and if I get all wet and have to change my clothes, then what?? That gave Azjah pause, and she colored at the direction of her thoughts, ?True enough, I did not see a change of clothing.? The notion was enough to make her stop teasing him. But his expression suggested that he was perhaps considering sacrificing his good clothes for some very special attention. Azjah quickly picked up her glass, ?Shall we go have a shot at the former Gov??

Rhaine glanced at the line of those willing to dunk Kitty. ?You know, Kit, you?ll really need a drink after it.? Then she headed back to her place and the beer she had ordered.

Azjah smiled at Xeric, ?What about you? Going to dunk Kitty?? He shook his head, ?She looks wet enough.? Azjah laughed and rose, intending to head for the dunking booth, ?Come on gentlemen.? Xeric rose too, rubbing his chin, ?What am I getting into??

Kitty went down with another splash as Koy hit the target solidly. It was hard for her not to laugh at the sight as Kitty struck a pose just as she was unceremoniously dropped into the water. ?Ye?re a good sport, Kitty. Wha? are ye drinkin?? I?ll pour.? Kitty surfaced, thrusting a clawed finger into the air, ?I shall never wear a dress again, except at my wedding!? Then she laughed and climbed back up onto the platform.

Koy paused, ?Ye know ye don't mean tha. Dresses are like drugs. Once ye're hooked there's no goin' back and ye can never have 'nough.?

Azjah linked her arm with Wil and winked at Koy, ?I know precisely what you mean, Koy!? Then she reached for Xeric?s hand, ?come on.? Xeric grinned at Wil and Azjah, ?I?m no dummy. Two is company, and three is a crowd. You two go ahead.? Wil shook his head at Xeric, ?Nah, c?mon Xeric.? Xeric rose reluctantly, ?I will follow.? He folded his hands behind his back and followed the couple at a short distance.

Wil had teased Koy about putting on a dress and having nice looking legs, and she felt that that was just simply dirty coming from him, but he laughed, ?Must be too much wine Koy.? Azjah chuckled, ?He might look good in a dress??

Rhaine grumbled quietly, ?Dresses are inconvenient, unpractical, but, well, for some reason, females look female in them.?

Azjah stifled laughter and fought for solemnity that she did not feel, ?Perhaps Koy has a dress you could model?? Since she hadn?t seen his legs, she could not be a judge of them. He waggled his brows at her until Koy spoke up.

?Aye, but would ye be willin? ta shave ?em Wil?? She gave him a crooked grin.

Azjah paused at the donation table and put another donation into the container as Wil gave Koy a shell shocked expression, ?Shave? My legs? No way!?

Koy gave him an innocent shrug, ?Ye can?t model with hairy legs.? Wil shot Koy a grin, ?You?re not going to get me to do it, just get me a very long dress.? Koy raised a brow and gave Wil what for all intents and purposes appeared to be the kind of serious evaluation she?d give any potential model, ?With those hips? Ye can?t pull off a long hemline bub!? But then she lost it in a fit of snickering.

Azjah chuckled and smiled at Koy, ?with a long slit in it.? Then she spotted Corlanthis and waved as she took the three balls in preparation for target practice on Kitty, who was kicking up some water with her toes, ?Throw me in the water, ya weenies!? Azjah flashed her a smile, ?Be very careful what you wish for Kitty, and no fair siccing Tass on us later.? She laughed, ?After last night, I wouldn?t dream of it.?

Behind her, Skidly was behind Azjah in the line, ?I?m going to get Kitty wet!?

Wil laughed, nearly choking on his wine, ?Koy, you?re just too much.?

Kitty shook her head with a laugh as Azjah tried once more to get them to step up to the booth, ?S?alright Azjah. Maybe he?s trying to be a gentleman or something freaky like that.?

Matthew had rejoined Koy, ?Surprised they didn?t ask me to be in that tank. I figure people would love to drown the guy who?s got constant fighter patrols overhead.? Koy smoothed out the back of her dress before sitting down, ?mebbe next year ye?ll be so lucky.?

Azjah glanced Matthew?s direction, ?Throttling booth might be appropriate.? Then she gave him a teasing grin. Wil had also heard him, ?Hey Governor! You should take the dunkin? chair!?

Xeric rubbed his chin as he heard Azjah?s comment, ?Now, that I would pay for. I can think of a few that I?d love to choke the life out of.?

Matthew shot Wil a grin, ?And deny the people of a drowned cat? Nay, I am a benevolent Governor! I shall give the people drowned cat!?

With no more people lined up for the dunking tank, and Wil and Xeric refusing to drop her into the cold water any further, Kitty clambered out of the tank and hit the ground with a splat of wet feet. ?Now, I?m off to get myself a series of hot alcoholic drinks!? She smirked hearing Matt, and as she made her way past him, she made sure to smack him with her wet, furry tail.?

As that wet tail smacked Matthew across the chest, he glanced down, ?Aw, no fair.? Koy had deftly dodged any deflected water splatters and gave Kitty a wave good night.

Wil shot Kitty a wink, ?Good night Kitty, you look good wet!?

Azjah shivered a bit as the night had cooled, and glanced up at Wil, ?Perhaps it is time to take me home?? He glanced down and noted her shiver, removing his jacket and resting it over her shoulders, ?I think it?s time.? He placed an arm around her and waved to those still enjoying the revelries.

Matthew waved, ?Take care, Colonel, Azjah.? They made their way across the glen and back into the white carriage to conclude the evening.

Azjah toyed with the ribbon in one hand, and took a sip of the scotch, which was held in the other hand as Kitty told her, ?He designed it to be so.? But her eyes were keenly glued to the ribbon, internally debating on how to get it from her, and knowing that there would likely be some sort of inevitable backlash she?d have to endure.

Rhaine glanced at Kitty, ?It looks ugly now when I can see with my eyes.? When she?d seen it the first time, she?d not completed her tasks at the Temple, but now she was back to herself, and looked at the bit of silk in a new light.

Azjah sought to change the subject and glanced at Rhaine, ?Why? I didn?t know you and Gabriel had spoken.? She shrugged, ?why? Am I to keep away from talking to Gabriel, and?vexing him with teleports?? She gave a chuckled right before ?vexing?, as though she?d enjoyed driving Gabriel to distraction.

Alain scowled at the ribbon Azjah held tightly, ?I don?t know about you, Kitty, I?m about ready to step on this Travanix problem.?

Ashandar?s gaze followed the conversation a bit, but his attention was drawn to the black bit of ribbon and the people discussing it. Azjah glanced at Alain, ?It?s just a bit of silk,? she objected, and gave Rhaine a smile, ?Not at all Rhaine.?

Alaind frowned, ?Azjah, nothing in RhyDin is as it seems, especially gifts from an evil, sadistic, slaver.?

Kitty was virtually silent, a soft ?mmm? was all she said to Alain, then with a quick scan about, while Alain and Rhaine held Azjah?s attention, she snaked a hand out and yanked at that ribbon, which parted into two pieces.

Absently, Ashandar reached out and rested on hand, palm down onto the bar top, not bothering to hide his eavesdropping.

Rhaine sighed, ?where?s that fanged silly6 when you need him?? Then she glanced at Alain, ?If she wants to learn the hard way, who are you to object??

Azjah glanced down at the shortened bit in her hand, shocked to discover it smaller than before.

Alain shook his head and glowered at Rhaine, ?Because I really don?t like the guy. He needs to take a long walk off a short pier, and he needs to do it?.. oh, about the day he was born.?

Azjah laid the bit on the table and smoothed it out carefully, as Rhaine chuckled at Alain?s observation, ?Many need that kind of walk here. But, about him, one of the few cases I?d stick to that statement.?

Azjah frowned at them, ?You two certainly don?t seem to like him. I?ve only met him just once, and he did not seem nearly as bad as you two are making out.?

Kitty felt the lure of the ribbon as she touched it, but something flickered in her eyes to help her keep control, and with a deep breath, she reached to take the rest of the ribbon, ?You?re best without this, trust me.?

Both brows rose as Azjah saw Kitty take the ribbon, but her upbringing prevented her from making a big issue out of such a small thing, although momentarily she wanted to swipe back to retrieve the ribbon from Kitty. She composed herself, ?Are you interested in selling it for him?? He had approached her as a business venture to sell the ribbon, perhaps Kitty could be of assistance. Azjah was still watching Kitty, regretting laying it where she could reach it.

Alain modified his tone, ?Kitty and I go into lots of business ventures together, I?m sure we can sell all his ribbons for him.? He then gave Kitty a pointed look.

Kitty?s response was startled, ?ah, sure!!? She gave a smile as she secreted away the second bit of silk.

Rhaine?s eyes narrowed at Azjah, ?Next time you wish to do anything idiotic, start with cocaine or anything as harmless.?

Ashandar?s gaze slid over S?jira for a few moments until he heard that the ribbon was for sale, and he turned to inquire about that. Azjah glanced at him, ?He (Travanix) is looking for someone to sell it for him, and left me that bit that Kitty has.? She tried to keep bitterness out of her voice, but was uncertain whether she?d succeeded or not.

Alain walked toward Kitty then, flipping the zippo to life, ?Hold it here.?

Azjah was already getting restless without the bit of ribbon, and Alain?s action had her ready to leap from her chair, ?Alain! That is mine!?

He gritted his teeth, ?I?ll get you a new one.?

Kitty tugged a bag from her pocket and shoved the ribbon into it, then snapped the bag closed before looking at Alain, ?No, we don?t want to burn Azjah?s possession.? Her look was very pointed.

Alain?s look said he felt differently, but his words agreed with Kitty and he flicked the lighter closed. ?You?re right. That would be rude.?

Ashandar gave Kitty a brief look, then he studied Azjah, ?I could pay you for it. Payment to give to this? Travanix, is it??

Rahine gave Kitty a grin, ?I can recommend you a professional sales manager from Mentar.? That brought Azjah?s attention back to Rhaine a moment as they were in the middle of planning a trip to Mentar Station, but Ashandar?s question needed a reply.

?Yes, Travanix is the one seeking to sell the ribbon,? she told Ashandar, though she couldn?t imagine why the man would be interested in such a frilly bit.

Alain groaned and muttered to Ashandar, ?For the love of God, he doesn?t need the money.? Then Alain beckoned Kitty, who was simply shaking her head at Ashandar as she shoved the bag into her pocket and out of sight. Azjah sighed seeing it vanish. She wanted that ribbon back, but she simply frowned instead. Such emotion over a tiny length of ribbon was just not rational, but it didn?t change the fact that she wanted that ribbon.

Ashandar nodded at Azjah, then to Kitty and Alain, ?It would not be right to take something that is not her?s, without giving her payment. I would hate to see her left in some sort of?. Debt?. To this Travanix,? he told them by way of explanation.

Kitty mumbled something to Alain, then looked at Ashandar, ?You?re right.? And with that, she dug in her pocket, and placed a green marble on the bartop for Azjah. It radiated psionic energy, ?there, in case you ever need to get a hold of me, or the old man,? then she winked at Azjah.

Azjah canted her head at the green marble, it was no substitute for the solace the ribbon had provided, but she picked it up, giving Kitty a look that was more a frown than a thank you, but her words said thank you, and she added, ?You will see that ribbon taken care of properly?? She couldn?t suppress the deep sigh at the loss of the ribbon.

Kitty nodded toward Alain, then turned to smile at Azjah, ?Oh, you can count on that.?

Ashandar looked at the marble, his gaze narrowing slightly before looking up again, ?And how will her debt be paid with that? If he comes looking for what became of the silk??

Azjah?s focus was still on Kitty?s pocket where the silk was stowed, but her words were for Ashandar, ?If we find someone willing to help him sell it, that was his purpose.? Then she frowned, ?I must be going?.?

Kitty snapped then at Ashandar, her clawed fingers tensing slightly at her hip, ?Then he can come directly to me.?

Azjah rose and headed reluctantly for the door, pausing in the doorway to look again at Kitty before slipping into the darkness.

Ashandar pivoted on a bare foot from looking at Azjah to slide to Kitty as the sharp words were tossed his way, ?me-ow? he simply stated.

Rhaine shook her head at Kitty, ?Make sure you have someone by your side when they do.? Then she finished her coffee and rose, ?I?ll go find Gabriel. He?ll get enough bad words from me for his fanged face to blush.?

Alain muttered, ?I think RhyDin took a sharp blow to the head before it woke up this morning.?

Kitty glanced absently at Rhaine, a serious migraine already beginning to form, ?If he knew about this and let it go? He deserves it.?

Rhaine shook her head, ?I don?t believe he?d let it go. That would be not the best idea of loyalty to Azjah.? She gave Kitty a semi-formal bow and bade her good evening.

Kitty wriggled claws to the departing Rhaine, and then put her hand to her pounding temple with a sigh.

There is so much about Azjah that Wil is really not aware of, right now, he was wishing he had access to the I.I.S.C. files, but he couldn?t without letting them know he was alive and well. He laughed, ?If I am, it?s so distant that I don?t think I?d be invited to any weddings.?

Azjah flashed him a smile, ?I meant the Peers.? The entire circle of Peers on Rigel was related in one form or another, and she thrust the thought to the back of her mind, that if by chance they could build a long term relationship, he would indeed be invited to Royal functions. ?What would you like to drink tonight.?

He passed the computer back to her as she asked him if a departure next week would work for him. He laughed again, ?Oh!? as he realized she meant her peers and not necessarily everyone in general, ?I?m fine, think I?ll pass on the drink tonight.? Then he grew more serious, ?Sounds perfect actually. Nothing going on here to keep me from going.?

Azjah glanced at the space behind Wil, she still hadn?t seen Gabriel, and it was unusual for him to leave her unattended for this long. ?Good,? she smiled faintly at him, ?The sooner we go, the better it would seem.?

Wil got the sudden feeling that Gabriel was behind him, but before he could say anything, Azjah gave him a quick smile, ?You want to fly that ship of yours, or fly with me on the Dragon??

He grinned, ?Well, I can be ready at any time. Hey, I could fly my ship to Rigel any time. I want to be with you.?

Those words sent a thrill though her body and she gave a quiet, and slightly nervous laugh, ?Just the three of us then.?

He rolled his eyes and laughed, he was starting to get used to Gabriel?s omnipresence, but he still had no clue just how ever present the Carpathian truly was. ?Yeah, just the three of us,? he repeated back at her.

She winked, ?He grows on you.?

Wil gave her a wry smile, ?Yeah, I suppose he does. At least he?s subtle in his presence.?

Azjah elected to ignore the cynical observation, ?I?ll notify Baumann to expect us.? She would let him know so that the house could be made ready, and the staff prepared to attend to visitor as well as the Marchoness.

At that point, Gabriel faded into view. His glance at Azjah let her know how displeased he was to find her once more in the company of the Colonel. But he held his tongue.

Wil on the other hand had been daydreaming, remembering the two nights of Beltane he?d spent with her, but he came out of his pleasant reverie, ?Oh, yes, Okay, that sounds good.?

Since she knew that he?d enjoyed dancing as much as she had, she added, ?There will be several fetes this time of year.? In fact, the Season would be well underway, and they would pretty much have their choice of events to attend.

His gaze slid toward Lana and something she had said, but returned to Azjah, ?I think this is the first time in my life I?m looking forward to celebrations.?

Azjah reached reflexively for his hand, ?Does that mean I shall have another dance??

Keaton?s voice carried across the room and above the general din of the patrons, ?Show me a neat trick, get a discount on your next drink!?

Wil took Azjah?s hand, ?You can have all the dances you want, Azjah,? He seemed poised to say a lifetime of dances, but he held back.

Azjah smiled, ?How are you set for formal attire?? She thought back to Klinton?s first experiences on Rigel and how he?d not been prepared emotionally nor for clothing for that world. Wil had been there, at least he had a

Lana nodded at Wil and Azjah, and was returned with a nod and a smile from Azjah, ?Good evening.?

Wil nodded at Lana and smiled, and gave Siren a wave, ?I have a formal military uniform. Will that do? Or should I purchase a tux??

Azjah trailed one perfectly manicured nail around the top of her glass, ?Are you willing to endure the questions of half the Peers? That uniform will bring them flocking to you.? She wasn?t certain it was a good idea to be flaunting Wil?s former career in a world then knew the I.I.S.C. well. Someone could inadvertently give him away, and others would do so in a heartbeat to gain points with that organization.

Wil bade Siren a good evening, then glanced at Azjah, ?Perhaps a tux would be best after all.? He?d come to the same conclusion that she had, saying softly, ?there could be I.I.S.C. agents on Rigel. No sense announcing my presence.?

Keaton glowered at Wil, "Careful, or I'll sick the Sisters on you." But then he grinned.

Azjah winked at Keaton, "Awww, here I thought you truly wanted tips and tricks tonight."

Wil laughed, and held up his arms in defense, "Okay, okay, guess you don't want those tricks either."

Keaton grinned around his cigarette at both Wil and Azjah.

Azjah gave Wil a soft laugh, "I believe a tuxedo will be acceptable in lieu of a dress."

His expression slid into a more pensive one as he looked over at Azjah and thought about this coming trip, "Okay, a tux it is."

Azjah noted his shift in mood, "You appear to be more pensive."

He had been thinking about spending time with Azjah, being with her for several days on the flight, but he wasn't going to say that. "Just about the trip. I want to make a good impression on those we see."

Azjah gave him a re-assuring smile, "Baumann can arrange for anything else you may desire once we arrive."

He gave her a puzzled look, that was the second time she'd used that name, "And who exactly is this Baumann?" She explained to him that he was her Major Domo on Rigel, essentially Dyson's equivalent.

Lord Momus chose that moment to make his way inside. Keaton yelled out, "Senior citizens get a discount as well,"

Wil nodded, "Ah, okay. You know, in the past, I've been on Rigel as an I.I.S.C. agent, and never had to worry about such things. Now," he gave her a shrug, "I think things are going to be quite different." Azjah chuckled, "I would imagine so," she said to things changing on Rigel, and what did you do there as an agent?"

Azjah spotted Tass and instantly blushed, "Lord Momus has arrived." Wil slid his glance Tass' direction, "Yeah, I see that, and clothed too." Then she colored deeply, "Thankfully clothed."

Tass was moving toward Lana for his smooch, and Wil said softly, "You'd think his lips would be worn out by now." Then he winked at Azjah.

Azjah blinked up at Wil, "That can happen?" Said absolutely deadpan innocence, but she couldn't maintain that and broke into a laugh as she lightly touched Wil's lips with her fingertips.

He kissed her fingers, "Oh, my lips still have their original warranty, I can assure you."

Tass smiled at Lana, then looked at Wil with that wolfish grin he has, "so do mine," and he started making his way toward Azjah and Wil.

Azjah colored slightly, "that's good to know."

Wil nodded at Tass, "I think you have that super tread on those lips. I'm still in therapy from Beltane."

Tass leaned down to give Azjah's cheek a kiss, and then he moved to give Wil one, but stopped and grinned, "You'd think you'd be used to it by now."

Wil laughed, "Tass, there's just no getting used to you, let's face it."

Azjah leaned her cheek into Tass' kiss, "You look none the worse for wear."

Lord Momus said, "though, if you like, I can help the therapy and return to Beltane."

Wil put his hands out in front of him, "No! No! My heart can only take so much excitement."

Azjah blushed profusely. "We'll pass on such a generous offer, Lord Momus."

Lana grinned and made her way ofter to Tass, Wil and Azjah, and stole a kiss from Wil, who blinked, "whoa", then he smiled, "thank you Lana."

Lana smiled up at Wil, "Since he didn't kiss you, I did." She gave Azjah a nod, "Good eve M'lady."

Tass grinned at Wil, "ahh, yes, and I definitely pale in comparison of the one which you sit with." He bowed, "I shall not keep you two longer, there are new lips which I hear."

Keaton peered about at all the kissing and muttered, "think someone's been pouring from the tap into the bottled water."

"Yes, I'm afraid you do Tass, but so does everyone else." He winked at Azjah, "that's okay Tass, your lady is waiting." As he glanced Kitty's direction, she was busily talking to someone else. Wil moved his chair over closer to Azjah's and she leaned closer to him, "Original warranty, hmm?"

He grinned unrepentantly, and nodded, "They still need to be broken in,"

Tass snickered as he looked at Kitty, ?I?m not sure how Azjah is dealing with it, but Wil seems to be traumatized by my traditionally ways, just remind him of it.? If Wil and Azjah could tease Kitty about wearing a dress, then turn about would definitely be fair play.

Azjah glanced up sharply hearing Tass, ?He?s not the only one traumatized!? Azjah smiled at Wil as he rose, ?We shall have a quiet lunch and talk.?

Tass chuckled and winked at Azjah, ?Yes, I?m sure there were a few others as well, but they can deal with it, after all, I was talking of you and Wi, not Wil and them.?

Wil nodded at Tass, ?Yeah, Tass, the emergency ward at Rhydin General was filled with people in shock that night.?

Azjah blushed as Wil glanced down at Azjah, reiterating his looking forward to lunch on the morrow. She smiled, ?Until then Colonel.? She watched him depart, deep within her own thoughts about what that lunch would bring.

Tass bit his tongue. He wanted to retort, very badly, but instead, he simply told him to take care as Wil departed from the Inn.

Azjah moved toward the bar, a bottle of dry champagne, a 1973 Dom Perignon from Oenotheque, had been uncorked, and she added a touch of pomegranate juice to both before turning to hand him the crystal flute, lifting her glass to his, ?Here?s to an enlightenment that will allow a beautiful future.? It was cryptic, but remained her hope despite how things were for the moment. ?My day would always have time for you Colonel.?

He lifted his glass to hers, touching it lightly, ?Yes, to a beautiful future.? Her toast had him hoping that she was thinking as seriously as he was that they had something very special between them, - something that could lead to a lasting relationship, and that beautiful future. ?Thank you, Azjah. Sometime I?d have to see more of your facilities and business, at least that which would be permitted to an outsider.? He sipped the aperitif, a perfect way to start the lunch. She was a woman of culture and he found that so refreshing.

Azjah lifted the flute to her lips, but there was a faint tremor to her hand as she did so, ?Wil, I wanted this time with you alone for two reasons, and it is my hope that when we finish our discussion, you will still desire that tour, and the lunch that awaits us.? She held the flute in her left hand, the sapphire and platinum ring had a mate, a thin platinum band nestled beside the showier setting.

Colonel Savage?s brow furrowed just a bit at the sudden change in the tone of the conversation. It was not an expression of anger or worry, but more of an expression of concern for he assumed that she had some detail to discuss about the upcoming trip; or perhaps about some travel with her business. He glanced quickly at her hand, but did not pay much attention to her rings. His gaze went back to her eyes, which he found to be much more fascinating to him. Was she going to offer him a job? Or say that she wanted more time together? Or perhaps ask him to stay with her? All kinds of scenarios played themselves out in a matter of a moment. ?Two reasons?? He repeated with a smile as he sipped his own flute. ?What are these two reasons, Azjah?? His voice was calm and deep, and gave off that air of confidence which was such a part of his nature.

Azjah paused in front of him, as much as she wanted to walk around, pace like a caged thing, she knew that the first topic needed to be done face to face. ?First, the trip to Rigel is one that may not turn out as I hope, and I don?t want you to come with me without knowing that I may fail.? She took a deep breath then, ?And secondly, I want you to know that the reason I am going to Rigel is because after two years of being deserted by my husband, I am seeking annulment so that we might spend time together in an open and honest relationship.? There, she?d said it, and her hand trembled, but other than that, she remained motionless as she tried to ready his features and his reaction.

Wil stared into her eyes, his brow furrowed more, and his eyebrows narrowed as he processed this information that he had just been given. ?You?.you are married, Lady Caer?? He had to ask it, because he was not certain he had just heard her correctly, or understood what he heard. Subconsciously though, he had already retreated into the less intimate, more formal mode of address.

The use of a title rather than the way he had been saying her name, and his accent that gave it such a lovely sound on his lips had vanished, to be replaced by the formalities once more. She hadn?t hidden it, the rings were always there, and it was common knowledge, but somehow all of that did not matter. ?I am married Colonel; married in front of my Kaiser by the Arch Bishop himself two and a half years ago.? There, she had said it in plain Common.

Wil?s left hand went to his forehead, and he turned his gaze to the floor. ?Wait, wait? you were married two and a half years ago.? Floods of memories broke loose in his mind of his own unsuccessful love experiences, but he buried all of that, ?But your husband deserted you six months after the wedding?? It didn?t make any sense to him, but then, suddenly nothing made sense. He?d seen the rings before, but for one who had seen so many planets, with so many customs, rings on a finger, even a finger of the left hand, didn?t automatically signify marriage to him. Suddenly, he was feeling less than hungry for any lunch.

Azjah took a deep breath; discussion of that horrible day wasn?t something she?d planned on doing. What had transpired between she and Klinton need only be known by themselves and the small group of witnesses who?d seen Klinton refuse to look at her after the Arch Bishop proclaimed them man and wife. ?Yes, Klinton had sought to be released from the Banns and be allowed to return to RhyDin rather than marry me. The Kaiser would not hear of it, as I had not gained his approval for the match. For whatever his reasons, we were wed in the Royal Audience Hall and not even in the Cathedral. Klinton left shortly after our return to RhyDin to seek information about his mother, whom he never knew. He took one of my ships, and has not been seen, nor heard from since.? She did turn then and walk toward the windows before continuing, ?I adored him, but either he has intentionally disappeared, or he?s truly dead. My agents have not been able to find even a trace of the vessel.? She didn?t need to add that all Drachen Walde vessels carried homing devices and transponders. Failure to locate either one meant only limited options.

Wil set the flute down onto the table and looked at her for a moment as she stood by the windows. He just shook his head. This was not something he had anticipated. And somehow, all of this just seemed too damned familiar. Was he destined to never marry again? With a sigh, he wondered if perhaps that was for the best. Why was he fighting it?? Then his eyes met hers, ?Do you still love him? Klinton?? He asked because he had to know.

She turned pale blue eyes on him. Had anyone else asked her that question, she would have been angry, but Wil deserved an honest answer, ?I did, yes.? She felt his retreat as surely as the sea retreated from the shoreline at low tide.

Lunch had simply flown by. They discussed the details of departure, and set 4 days hence as the time to go. Four days before she would set in motion something she?d never thought possible. Annulment. It had a somber and painful feel to the word, despite the promise of a real life again with a man who genuinely seemed to care for her.

She saw Wil to the door and returned to her office, but couldn?t sit down and concentrate on work. So she did what she usually did when she needed an outlet for nervous energy, she headed for the target range. She took her favorite weapon and informed Charlotte that she would be in the Range, no interruptions. And then she vanished down the hall toward her sanctuary.

She set the computers for return fire from the inhabitants of this programmed world, then donned hearing protection and entered the course. Annulment. The first target popped up and she fired, but it wasn?t a clean ?kill? and the target fired back. The laser fire stung badly and she swore, dropping low and gauging how to move forward.

A crash of sound indicated where the wounded target lay, and she worked her way around to get a final shot off. Annulment. She frowned as the word kept popping into her thoughts.

The next set of targets snapped into her path, and she got one shot off before return fire came her way and she had to duck for cover. Focus! She needed to focus on this simulation or she was going to pay a painful price for her inattention.

At the end of an hour, she?d been struck more times by the simulation than she could ever remember, and she paused the program. She?d taken a nasty laser burn to her shoulder and neck, but she was not going to leave the range with this dismal performance. She set the computer to begin again.

Three more re-runs of the program had Azjah worn out. The adrenaline that kicks in when you?re being shot at had long since run out, and each new target was a sheer exercise in will power more than reflex training. She had a couple more wicked burns from being too slow and too distracted.

She was about to reset the system when the door clicked open, despite her orders not to be disturbed, and as she turned around to see who dared, she froze in place. Eoin flipped on the lights, ?My apologies Marchioness, but you are needed most urgently.? The expression on Eoin?s face brooked no argument and Azjah safetied her weapon. ?It is Master Gabriel, and you are requested urgently.?

Kairee appeared in a shimmer burst of gold dust, already seated upon the bar, and careless of where the gold settled. Antonio poured her a glass of champagne, and takes it to Kairee. She winked at him, ?Hey babes.?

Azjah tapped in a few more key commands, frowning deeply as she read the same information. She swirled the scotch as Kairee sipped her champagne and glanced at Tara. Then emerald eyes lit on Azjah, ?Hey babes.? Azjah glanced up from her search, ?Ah, good evening Kairee. You look lovely tonight.?

She winked, ?I know, babes. Have you considered the strange markings found in the mine??

Tara thought she was talking to her and said, ?No, I found out I am not allowed in the mine. Apparently there was some ancient Dark Queen who once went into the mine of Tszarjetteel and came out covered in guano, thus making it forbidden for future Dark Queens, such as myself, to step foot in it again.?

Azjah touched the keys again, ?I?m running them through the system to try to make some sense of them. Have you any intuition?? The images had been sent over by the mining engineer, but events with Gabriel had kept her mind on other things until Kairee mentioned it again.

Kairee glanced at Tara, ?I was asking Azjah about the mine, Tara, do you know Azjah? Guano garb is so very last century in any case, Tara.?

Tara blinked, ?Azjah has a mine that spews bat droppings on Dark Queens too?? Then Tara smiled and nodded Azjah?s direction, ?I do, and I like her lots.?

Azjah dropped her head with a laugh. ?How are you Tara? I didn?t see you, but I was focused on this project.?

Kairee chuckled, ?No, not at all, I?ve been to the mine many times, and no bat has presumed to guano me in greeting.?

Azjah shot Kai a smile, ?Kai, no bat would dare.?

Kairee grew more serious than she?d seen her in some time, ?In fact, Azjah, the mine is bat and other vermin free, very odd.?

Tara mused, ?You are most fortunate, Miss Kairee, for according to the Dark Star Kingdom?s chroniclers, this ?particular? Dark Queen was highly displeased with being dumped on, and killed every bat she saw after that.? She frowned, ?Bats are my cousins. It pains me to think of their struggle.?

Kairee glanced at Tara, ?Well, it?s a sad fact that some Dark Queens, Tara, are not very nice at all.? Tara nodded, and agreed, ?I am learning this, Miss Kairee.?

Azjah glanced at the search which was coming up with nothing on the runes either, and she wondered if there was something wrong with the machine to come up empty on two separate searches, ?I think the mine engineer has worked on that, but perhaps it is the Dwarves?? Maybe the dwarves had undertaken a pest removal program.

Kai turned her attention back to Azjah, ?No, they have expressed concern about this Azjah.?

That surprised her, because she hadn?t heard any murmurs or grumbles from the team Kairee had placed in the mines, nor had her engineer and geologist mentioned anything. Azjah commented that she hadn?t heard anyone consider it worrisome yet.

Azjah focused on Kairee and masked the pain in her neck and shoulder, ?I?ve got a detailed search going, if I find anything, I?ll get the information to you as quickly as I can.? And then it simply slipped out, very softly as Wil stood beside her, ?He nearly died last night.?

Kairee shook her head, ?I doubt you will, Azjah, they seem arcane in nature, but primitive.?

Wil glanced at her as though he couldn?t imagine Gabriel actually dying, and very quietly said, ?we?ll talk in private.?

Azjah focused on Kairee rather than the burns, ?there are some very specialized archaeologists out there, even in the Arcane arts, someone may recognize them.? Then she gave Wil a slight nod, trying not to stretch the burned skin.

Wil remained close to Azjah and simply listened to them speak, and was considering running the markings through the I.I.S.C. computers, but then remembered that wouldn?t be a good idea at this point.

Azjah finished her scotch as Kairee blew a kiss to Antonio, ?I received the emeralds, babes, very lovely.?

Antonio smiled, ?Outstanding! They met your expectations then?? Kairee and Antonio engaged in some banter about the emeralds, which are Kairee?s absolute favorite gem.

Wil decided then to ask Azjah what he had come into the Inn to ask in the first place, his voice was very soft, ?Azjah, there?s a late showing of a show at the theater, I was wondering, would you like to take it in and forget about cares of the world for a while??

She glanced at Wil, at first inclined to say no, but there was no point in returning to the Palazzo until they returned with Gabriel, and Lucien would let her know when that happened, she gave Wil a bit of a smile, ?That would be appreciated.? Then she glanced at Kairee, ?Would you excuse us, Kai??

Wil smiled, ?You like popcorn?? He had no idea, and realized that he had so much to learn about this woman who so captivated his attention.

She smiled and gave a very slight nod, ?I do like popcorn, but with salt, not sugar on it.? She?d grown up with the popcorn on Rigel having sugar instead of salt, but once she?d tasted the treat salty rather than sweet, she was forever hooked on butter and salt.

Wil flashed her a grin, ?Good, same with me. Sugar pops are not my style.? Then he shot Kairee a wink, ?Kairee babes, you have a night as splendiferous as those legs, Okay?? His hand moved to the small of Azjah?s back as they made their way toward the door, ?I think ?There Will Be Blood,? is showing. A vampire movie, no doubt.?

Azjah quirked a pale brow at him; turning her whole body, rather than simply turning her head his direction, ?Gory?? The last thing she wanted to see was a gory showing and be reminded of how close Gabriel had come to that kind of fate.

Wil had no way of knowing, and he gave her a teasing wink, ?And if you get frightened, and want to hold onto me, that would be okay,? He was clearly in a light hearted mood, ?This is not gory blood, I think it?s actually a ?chick flick?.?

She laughed and linked her arm in his, ?Shall we??

He nodded, ?We should just get there in time.?

Azjah bade good night to Kai, Tara, Eless and Antonio before heading for the door.

They passed Panther on their way out, he was heading in, and Wil bade him a good evening before they headed down the road toward the theater.

Rhaine chuckled, ?And my time back in University has spoiled me.?

Azjah smiled, ?It?s called Heaven in a Bottle if you were to ask me.?

Rhaine focused on Wil, ?A replica of extinct Mrrshan Blue, batch 78A39.?

Wil grew quite serious, ?Ah, Mrrshan Blue, batch 78A39! I should have known!? But he spoiled it by chuckling and revealing that in truth, he had absolutely no idea what Mrrshan Blue was. He carefully took a sip, bringing in air with it, again, as if he were tasting wine, then nodded favorably. ?Heaven in a Bottle, huh?? He gave Azjah a teasing wink.



She nodded, ?Absolutely. Rhaine has surprising treats now and then, and this is one of the best.?

Wil gave Azjah the eye, clearly telling her without words that it was she who was heaven to him, and not some liquid in a bottle, but then he turned to Rhaine, ?It?s good.?

Rhaine thanked him then added for edification, ?It was extinct when the Mrrshan?s were.?

Azjah leaned back into her chair with the wine glass as Wil observed to Rhaine, ?So, it could be considered well aged then??

Then she leaned foreward again, ?You have found a way to reproduce it, correct?? She hated the thought that Rhaine would deplete any stock of the real thing from her stores.

Rhaine took a small sip from her glass, evaluating the taste in her usual thorough and unbiased way, ?hmm, batch 78B39 was more adequate in color, but less correct in taste, evolutionally speaking, yes. Technology, vine sort, and fungal compound were lost with the loss of Fieras.?

Azjah gave a soft laugh, ?Well, you are more prepared to find its flaws than I am, but this is very good.? She glanced at Wil, ?If she were able to make sufficient quantities, I would love to add it to the Palazzo collection.?

Rhaine gave a slight smile, ?It?s the flaw of my colleagues, we never consider anything perfect. It will be manufactured by facilities of Gair SubLine, I think you can negotiate the rest with Aquira Althos-Gair.?

Azjah set the glass down, ?Rhaine and I were just talking about the trip to Rigel, with Gabriel down, I don?t know if I should go.? Her eyes held Wil?s, wondering if he would understand a delay now. She nodded hearing Rhaine, ?Negotiate, hmm?? The trip to Mentar Station would have several points of interest then.

Wil had just commented that it was delicious and would be worth stocking when he registered Azjah?s next words. But he remained silent on the subject.

?Regular supply, additional features, Aquira is the Advisor for now,? Rhaine elaborated.

Azjah noted how busy the Inn had gotten, ?But, perhaps such discussions are better saved for less sharing??

Rhaine nodded, ?Both topics.?

Wil agreed, ?that would be wise.?

Azjah looked at Rhaine then, ?How long will you be on vacation Rhaine??

?Depends on how long I need. While there is no emergency, I can take time to rest and relax.?

Azjah grew restless, she needed to discuss the situation with Gabriel with Wil, and the middle of the Inn wasn?t the place to do that. She set down her glass, ?Rhaine, it was very good to see you tonight, and I am pleased to hear that you are taking a vaction. Thank you for the excellent vintage of Mrrshan Blue.?

She nodded, ?Was glad to see you, Marchioness.?

Azjah hadn?t been concerned that Gabriel would attack her. She was seldom ?food? for him, so the lure shouldn?t raise its head and tempt him as it had when he?d gone to feed two nights ago. ?Gabriel as a Vampyre is truly terrifying Wil. He?s over 2700 years old, and that would make him one of the greatest threats human kind has experienced. Turn all of that knowledge and power into something evil that preys on terror and death.? She lifted her face to Wil?s, and with unshakable conviction said, ?Gabriel has never hurt me Wil.?

Wil?s brow rose fractionally, ?He?s terrifying enough when he?s in a cheery mood.? He touched her face, realizing that he was falling in love with this woman he now held in his arms, ?I can?t bear the thought of you being hurt. Perhaps I should be around more.?

Azjah gently rubbed her cheek against his hand, ?I am uncertain what to do right now Wil. Do I leave Gabriel here, and go to Rigel without him, or do I risk angering the Kaiser and postponing my audience? I would enjoy seeing more of you.? She gave him a smile before looking out over the water. She wasn?t sure she was ready for him to see how he affected her. She knew Wil couldn?t protect her from Gabriel, but she also knew with certainty that Gabriel was no threat.

He stood behind her with his arms wrapped around her as they looked out over the water together, ?You?d not feel right leaving Gabriel in his time of need. And I would not feel right taking you away at this time. Rigel will always be there, Azjah, and I?ll always be here, with you.?

She leaned against the solidity of his chest, his words making her feel cherished, something she hadn?t realized that she missed. ?I can speak with Prince Mikhail, see how long they plan to keep him at rest.? She curled her arms around his, lacing her fingers in one of his hands, ?the last time Lucien and Gabriel collided like this, they went to ground for nearly a century.?

Wil?s brow rose, but from Azjah?s angle, she couldn?t see it, ?It would probably be good to get to Rigel before a century is out.? He was trying to make it sound light hearted and joking, but he was only half teasing.

Azjah nibbled on her lower lip, ?there isn?t anything I can do for him right now, and I think that?s what hurts.? She gave a wry chuckle as she shifted slightly to move one of the laser burns from beneath his arm, ?Well, hurts more than the burns do. And yes, I think getting to Rigel is important.? She knew it was important, this thing between them could not be allowed to grow, if it was going to grow, until she was free.

?More than burns? What burns?? He realized that he truly did need to spend more time with her.

Azjah turned then, within the circle of his arms, pulling aside the collar of the ivory silk blouse to reveal an angry burn, ?I was too slow and distracted in the firing range.? She released the collar, which slide back into place and hid the burn that she?d shown him. The others were not in placed she could show. ?My targets shoot back Wil.?

?Azjah!? His eyes widened in surprise and perhaps a bit of shock, ?What am I going to do with you!? He shook his head in disbelief, but a part of him respected her all the more as he?d seen that kind of shooting range before, many times in fact. His hand lifted and caressed her hair lightly before he placed a kiss on her forehead. ?I know?.? He whispered back.

Azjah chuckled, ?The return fire took Scarlet by surprise. And I usually have the lasers set to cause enough pain to remind you to keep focused.? She slid her hands up his chest, over the thin material of the tee shirt, and burrowed into the tied arms of his sweater, ?Will you come to dinner at the Palazzo? I know I?m not released yet, but your company would be appreciated.? She knew it was improper, but right now, she needed the closeness Wil seemed to be willing to give her despite her intact marriage.

His hands moved over her shoulders, ?I?d love to have dinner with you.?

She shrugged when he?d commented that she could shoot her eye out, ?I could have had the burns healed, but if I am too slow to avoid it, I should pay the price for my inattention.?

Wil harnessed his will power and held back a kiss that was not a simple kiss between friends, he wanted so much more, but reigned that back, ?You are very hard on yourself, m?lady.?

She gently laid her head against his shoulder, ?Not as hard on myself as some others I know.?

He held her tighter and kissed her cheek, ?You are a leader, and a very good one Azjah. If there?s nothing you can do, and you feel Rigel is important, maybe we can get there and get back before he recovers from that sleep.?

She nodded and fought down tears of frustration, ?Is there anything special you would like for dinner?? She turned just in time to kiss the corner of his mouth, ?Were I a leader, I would know how to help Gabriel, but I have no answers.?

He placed a finger to her lips to stop the self recrimination, ?Sometimes even the greatest of leaders don?t have an answer.? Then he gave her one of his bad ? boy smiles that promised mischief, ?How about something simple that we can just eat while holding each other??

Azjah blushed in the twilight of the beach, ?Andre may take offense, he rarely gets to show off lately, but I?ll ask him for just that.?

?And some wine,? he added playfully.

She chuckled, canting her head at him, ?Mrrshan Blue, or something more delicate??

?No, that?s good. Maybe sitting on a porch, gazing at the stars?? His grin grew as he set the stage for their next meal together.

She slowly studied him from head to foot and back up again, ?I have a fine telescope in the garden, a lovely chaise, and I am certain we can have dinner delivered there. Unless you dislike the splash of a fountain in the background?? She?d never met anyone who didn?t like the sound of water splashing, but there was always the chance.

He gazed into her eyes, ?sounds perfect.?

She colored slightly and then smiled, ?I look forward to that moment when you grace my doorstep.?

He gave her a rakish smile, ?How about I just come with you now??

She hugged him gently, knowing that this dinner was not within the bounds of acceptability, but she truly did not care, ?I am ready when ever you are.?

He nodded, ?Let?s go. I?m dying for finger food.? He gave her a wink that sent a wave of heat through her.

?I think we can hunt something up.? She told him as they headed back across the sand toward the portal.

Col. Wil Savage wanted a drink, but even more he wanted to see Azah. He had been thinking about her all day and there was a good chance that she?d be at the Red Dragon Inn this night. He came in wearing a light leather jacket, jeans, and a blaster on his hip. It seemed wise to be well-armed these days when venturing into the Inn, and Wil hadn?t lived this long by being careless. He made his way toward the bar, removing the dark shades and resting them on top of his head, ?Hey Johnny, how?s it going??

Johnny gave a quick look back over his shoulder, and then a broad smile, ?Wil! Ain? seen ya in ages. Doin? good, bro ? ya? Wha? d?ya wan???

Jade gave Wil a finger waggle before returning to her conversation with Rika, ?No, no dear, a honeymoon is where newlyweds go on vacation with each other for the first week or so of marriage,? she gave a sage nod as she spoke.

?Glad to hear all?s okay. I?ll have a Dalwhinnie, please, when you get a chance. Azjah has me spoiled on that stuff.? Wil took up a comfortable lean against the bar while he waited and gave Jade a wave in return.

Johnny shot him a grin, ?Sure thin? bro!? And he was busy getting an orange juice for someone and with the other hand, reaching for the bottle of Dalwhinnie.

Azjah walked through the door of the Inn, speaking quietly with an elderly gentleman, who opened the door for her. She stepped inside with a slight inclination of her head to him and paused to find an empty table. During that perusal, she spotted Wil at the bar, and turned to speak to the gentleman with her, inquiring if he would like to join Wil.

Dominik turned his unique, metallic green eyes on Wil, nodding assent. Since they would spend several weeks in one another?s company, he deemed it appropriate to make the male?s acquaintance.

Both then made their way across the room toward Wil, who?d heard the door open and glanced at the new arrivals. A big smile spread across his face as he winked at Johnny, ?Mmm, this place just got better Johnny, a second Dalwhinnie when you get a chance.? He picked up his glass and stood, moving toward Azjah as she approached the bar. ?Azjah, I ordered this just for you.? He smiled and held up the glass of Dalwhinnie, neat.

Azjah met him with a smile, ?You?re hooked, hmm??

Johnny nodded, ?The second Dalwhinnie that is, neat, or on the rocks??

Wil handed her the glass, ?I have another coming.? Then over his shoulder to Johnny, ?Neat, please.? Then he smiled down at her, ?Yeah, see what you have done to me? You?ve spoiled me on good scotch.?

Azah took the glass and glanced toward Dominik; she knew the Dragonseeker would not have anything to drink that could be obtained from the bar, ?Dominik, please meet Colonel Wil Savage. Wil, this is Dominik, and he will be joining us on the trip to Rigel.? Azjah found she missed the easy telepathic connection that she had shared with Gabriel and Lucien for so many years. Since Dominik and she had no blood exchange, they could not have such a connection, and she briefly wondered if she should remedy that shortcoming.

Wil nodded at Dominik, ?Pleased to meet you.?

Johnny produced the second glass of Dalwhinnie for Wil, ?There ya go!?

Wil handed Johnny enough silver for both drinks, and a handsome tip for the handsome man. ?Thanks Johnny.? He picked up his glass as Dominik?s gaze held his own for a moment before the Dragonseeker returned Wil?s nod.

Azjah took a sip of the scotch, ?Shall we take a seat?? Simultaneously, Wil asked the same thing, then smiled at her, ?You read my mind.? Azjah gave Wil a soft laugh since mind reading wasn?t in her background, but a certain level of empathic ability was, perhaps that is what he considered mind reading.

Dominik was usually fairly silent, not saying much unless it was of some importance. The ancient Carpathian sorcerer seemed almost a world removed from everything that transpired around him, and yet, he never missed a nuance.

Wil moved toward a couch with the two, ?Please excuse me for a moment, I?ll be right back.? He set his glass down and gave Azjah that ?I?m really glad to see you? look before departing. He still had a smile upon his face from the previous evening. They had such a good time together in her Palazzo garden. Everything felt so right with the Marchioness, and in some ways that frightened him. He didn?t have a very good record with relationships, but Azjah seemed different than every other woman. She was everything he could ever want in a woman ? and more. He had told her that he loved her, and that thought brought another smile to him as he headed to the back to wash his hands.

Azjah settled onto the couch as Dominik took an adjacent chair. Wil disappeared through the back doors of the Inn, and she and the Dragonseeker sat in quiet conversation about the impending flight.

Several minutes later, he came back in through the back door, moving toward Azjah, and taking a seat on the couch next to her, ?I?m sorry, Azjah. All?s now taken care of.? He picked up his glass of Dalwhinnie and took a sip.

Azjah nodded at him with a smile, ?We were just discussing departure for Rigel.? She glanced at Dominik, ?Well, we should schedule a departure for some time in the next 2 or 3 days.?

Wil glanced from Dominik to Azjah, ?I?m ready at any time.?

Azjah gave Wil a smile, ?Dominik will be going instead of Gabriel, but he?s no pilot.?

Dominik gave her a wry smile, ?I shall leave the management of such craft to those with the training and skill.?

Wil laughed, ?Well, I hear three pilots on one ship is like too many cooks in a kitchen.?

Azjah gave a soft laugh, ?Well, there will only be two on this flight.? She knew the Dragon could have made the trip with just one pilot, but she hated the thought of such a long flight with only herself and the autopilot to rely on. Autopilots had come a long way, but they still did not think independently.

Wil winked at her, ?That?s perfect.?

She glanced at Wil, ?So shall I arrange a launch window??

Dominik simply nodded as Wil said, ?I?ve got the formal wear, my uniform, and casual. I?m ready for anything. And yes, that sounds good to me.?

She gave him a soft laugh, knowing how the Ton would throw the unexpected at them at every turn, ?Ready for anything, hmm??

He sipped the excellent scotch, looking at Azjah. It always amazed him just how beautiful she was, ?Well, you know?? He actually blushed, ?I try to be.?

Dominik rose then, bowing to them both before making his way out of the crowd and into the night. Azjah knew he hated to be too long among crowds of humans, and he would need to hunt tonight. They would try to feed Gabriel without bringing him out of Carpathian sleep. Dominik was doing the hunting for two this night.

Wil smirked slightly after Dominik departed, ?Actually, ?anything? where it concerns you, includes a lot more ?anything? than I?m used to.?

Azjah colored slightly, ?Well, sometimes I have a quiet life, and then?.? Her thoughts trailed off, as clearly she needed to sometime elaborate for Wil just what sorts of things did actually land in her path of life.

He gave her an insouciant grin, ?And then, after those few moments of quiet, anything can happen??

She gave a soft laugh at the way he finished the thought, ?Life would be ever so dull otherwise.?

Wil reached over and touched her hand lightly, speaking very softly, ?Its how you keep me totally fascinated in everything about you.?

Azjah peered into his deep blue eyes, ?I do hope you don?t mind the last minute substitution for Gabriel??

He gave her a thoughtful shake of his head, ?No, of course not. I think I?m going to miss Gabriel though.?

Azjah curled her fingers into his hand, and with a sad, soft whisper, ?So am I.? She liked Dominik, but it would not be the same. Gabriel had been in her life and thoughts for so long, they were so comfortable with one another it no longer felt odd or alien to her, but Dominik was another tale. To know that anything said within the confines of the house or the ship would be heard by the Dragonseeker now seemed a great loss of privacy, even though it was no different with Gabriel or Lucien. She wondered how soon Wil would figure out just how good Carpathian senses were, and would he object as Klinton had?

Wil nodded thoughtfully, ?I do hope he?ll be okay.? He held her hand and gave it a gentle squeeze of reassurance.

Azjah bit her lower lip a moment, ?Mikhail is going to stay for a bit, but I can tell even he is worried.? That said a lot, that the Prince of their people was worried for Gabriel, and she still wasn?t convinced that it was the best time to go.

Wil tried to put a positive spin on it, ?Well, we?ll hurry back, after our good news.? He winked at her as he sought to allay some of her worry that showed as a frown line on her brow.

Azjah gave him a weak smile, ?The question will be how much the Kaiser thinks his blessing is worth.?

Wil?s eyes fixed on her smile, ?You are a very persuasive woman, Azjah; he doesn?t stand a chance.?

She laughed at that, ?We?re talking about Kaiser Wolfgang IV here. He?s always looking to increase the size of his coffers.? Then she grew more thoughtful, ?I have not had the opportunity to ask you what type of things you like to eat. I?ll have to give Baumann a heads up.?

Wil grinned, ?Well, we?ll think of something, I?m sure. Remember what I said.? His voice lowered only for her to hear, ?I?m going to fight for you, I?ll not give up.?

She leaned closer to him, ?We?ll be alright, and I hope you won?t have to fight for me, but I know that you mean it.? Just knowing that he would do that made her heart turn over in her chest. She?d been so used to fighting her own battles; his sincerity was more touching than he would ever know.

Wil leaned close to her, holding her hand in one, and his glass of Dalwhinnie in the other, his voice a soft caress against her cheek, ?With you and me together, we can do anything.? He gave her a smile, ?Just ask those space pirates.?

Azjah smiled, ?Shall I have Baumann hire you a butler?? She liked his optimism, and felt like a part of something shared.

He leaned back slightly and studied her, ?A butler? I?ve never had a butler. I?ve had a lot of things, but never a butler.? Then he canted his head at her, ?Do I need one??

She grew a metaphorical set of horns then, as she regarded him almost assessingly, ?Yes, yes, I think you do,? The impish smile curved her lips as she teased him, but with all of the things they would need to do on Rigel, a gentleman to handle the details would definitely be in order. This trip to Rigel would be a whole new experience for him.

He gave her a mock look of indignation, ?Ah, so I need someone to dress me. Okay, I can take a hint.? Then he laughed and squeezed her hand.

Lana finally made it to the main floor of the Inn, inch by slow inch; she made her way carefully over toward the bar from the grand staircase. Looking closely, you could see that she was not moving gracefully, and in fact, it appeared as though her ribs were taped up tightly.

Wil?s gaze slid toward Lana, and he frowned, noticing that she was clearly hurt, and he called over, ?Good eve Lana, are you okay?? Azjah?s glance followed Wil?s.

Lana turned ever so slightly toward Wil, ?Nope, broken some ribs.?

?Oh my, Lana, how did that happen?? He was genuinely concerned over how such a thing could have happened to her.

She glanced at them, ?I helped a friend avoid getting killed, and was slammed against a tree and knocked out.? Azjah?s brow lifted hearing that.

Wil winced as he heard the explanation, ?Ouch,? He did manage to refrain from inquiring how the tree was doing, but just barely.

Azjah spoke softly to Wil, ?That sounds like things went badly all the way around.?

He turned back toward Azjah, and was intently studying her collar and what he could see of her neck, ?How are those burns doing??

She gave a dismissive wave of her hand, ?They?re healing.? They had stiffened up and easily broken open, but that was all part of the healing process, and something that would pass.

He simply shook his head and smiled, clearly wanting to tell her how she made him feel, but he kept silent in the public venue of the Inn.

Azjah took a sip of her scotch, ?Food?? She prompted him again, ?Baumann will be asking.?

He raised a teasing brow, ?Am I looking hungry?? He sought not to smile and give away that it wasn?t food for which he hungered.

Azjah decided to deliberately play ignorant to the thoughts that played in Wil?s eyes, ?By the end of the trip, you certainly will be.?

He leaned in and spoke against her ear in a whisper that sent chills of longing down her spine, ?You mean, I should bring my energy bars??

She fought the urge to blush, and lost that battle as her mind considered the expenditure of energy that he was referring to, and then she lifted pale blue eyes to his, ?No, I mean I need a grocery list of things you like, or Baumann will fret.? Oh, but she wanted to answer differently!

He laughed, recognizing her understanding of his subtle meaning, ?Okay, I?ll make a list, but I eat anything. You?d be surprised at some of the things I?ve had to eat on some planets.? He shook his head, ?Thinking about it, even ?I? am surprised.?

Azjah smiled and lifted a brow in challenge then, ?Shall we go for some exotic choices on Rigel?? She thought of some of the more unique aspects of Rigelian cuisine and wondered how he would react.

He leaned back into the couch, drawing her with him, ?Well, I said I would eat anything, I didn?t say I would necessarily like it. Perhaps we leave the more exotic menu items for another visit??

She nestled comfortably beside him with a soft laugh, ?No sense of adventure Colonel?? She was laying the gauntlet of challenge at his feet.

He grinned back at her, ?Hey, I know your ?adventure?.? He just loved this teasing banter they were sharing, ?Okay, I?ll take you on.?

She lifted her chin slightly, ?You sir, are on.?

He grew thoughtful, ?Okay, and what does the winner get? What?s the weird Rigelian food consumption prize??

Azjah leaned back a moment in thoughtful contemplation, ?I?m thinking the winner should have something that pleases the senses?? She deliberately left it hanging, knowing it would peak Wil?s interest.

His expression did not disappoint her as there was great enthusiasm in his features, ?Oh yes, this is sounding good. And maybe it should be winner?s choice!?

Azjah gave him a slow smile, ?I should think so, but it must be utterly Sardanapalian in nature.? She wondered if Wil had ever experienced the pleasures of Sardis.

He blinked in confusion, ?It?s to be what?? He moved then, getting his face close to hers with that teasing bad-boy grin, ?Sardanapalian sounds very sexy.?

She closed her eyes with a blissful smile and a soft sigh, ?Oh, very.?

Wil?s brow rose as he looked upon her face, reading every nuance she?d intended, ?Now you?ve got me ?very? interested.? He said that as a man who was suddenly very hungry for more.

That beatific smile remained on her features as she slowly opened her eyes to look at him, ?You have never lived until you?ve followed the Sardanapales and their view of sensual delights.?

Wil downed the remainder of his Dalwhinnie in one gulp and set the glass down before placing his hand over his heart, ?M?lady, you have me most enthralled.?

Azjah gave a soft laugh, noting the way his pulse had accelerated and found she liked the response, ?Sardanapales believe that one should do nothing that does not involve pleasing every sense, all the time.?

Wil subconsciously licked his lips in response, ?I?m really starting to like these Sardanapales.? His deep blue eyes were bright with contained mirth.

She gave him a slow, meaningful smile, ?I thought they might appeal. So is it a trip to visit the Sardanapales for the winner of the wager??

He grinned almost lasciviously, ?As long as the loser can tag along.? He gave a fast up/down of his eyebrows to her.

Azjah quirked a pale brow at him, ?Now what kind of wager is that? That?s a win-win.?

He smirked, ?Yeah?? So?? What?s your point?? Then he dissolved into laughter.

She leaned over to kiss his cheek, ?You just want to experience a true Sardanapalian delight.? Not that she minded, in fact, it quite thrilled her that he would be willing.

Wil?s voice was a warm whisper, ?I just want to experience being with you, Azjah.?

Azjah wanted to snuggle against him, but she was already way out of bounds, ?Well, you are going to have that chance, but privacy gives way to protocol when we reach Rigel.? What privacy she had in her life, which wasn?t much, would have to be shipboard for the time being.

He nodded with a little smile, ?Of course.?

She gave him a bright smile, ?So, we?ll have to make the most of the flight.?

Wil gave her a mischievous grin, ?Oh good, I have a few game boards I can bring along.? He winked at her as she canted her head at him, mouthing, ?Board games?? He placed a kiss upon her cheek, whispering softly, ?I was just joking.?

Two could play at those games, and she took a sip of scotch, ?Shall I bring along a deck of cards? Are you a poker fellow, or canasta??

He gave her ?that? grin, ?Well, I do know a few card games that could prove interesting.? He fought the urge to burst into gales of laughter, ?I can play both, or even Bridge.?

Azjah shook her head, ?Bridge is more fun as a foursome.? Then she nearly choked on her scotch, had she really just said that?

Wil cracked up then and leaned back, ?Umm, you have a good point there. Let?s stick with Canasta.? Then he spotted Peredhil and Rena, ?Hello!? he said to them both.

Rena gave a nod to them both, but took a booth some distance away.

Peredhil hearing a familiar voice looked up, ?Wil! Where have you been?? He ignored Sianna?s glare and muttering.

Wil chuckled, ?Just hanging around Peredhil, good to see you again.? He turned back to Azjah, quietly saying, ?Peredhil is a good guy.?

Azjah nodded, ?I?ve seen him about.?

Peredhil nodded at Wil, ?Likewise, my friend.?

Wil grinned at the man, ?Doing great, couldn?t be better.? He gave Azjah a wink since she was the reason for his current condition. He took her hand in both of his, his attention now totally on Azjah once more, and he was about to talk about Rigel, but put that off as Peredhil greeted her.

Peredhel realized then that Wil was engaged in conversation with Azjah and he offered her a polite nod, ?Evening.?

Azjah nodded at Peredhil, ?Good evening. Would you care to join us??

He thanked her, saying that he had no desire to impose, then gave Wil a quick smile as he noted the wink, ?I am actually waiting for someone.? And the sound of that special someone?s voice reached him and his smile broadened as he excused himself.

Wil said very softly, ?I think Peredhil and Juliane are quite fond of each other.?

Her gaze followed his as the two met, ?Perhaps they are, and that?s a good thing, there is too much animosity in the world.? She shivered slightly as she thought about some of the tales of horror that were in the papers and on the news wires. Wil nodded his agreement. Then Azjah glanced into his eyes, ?So, do you have any questions about Rigel? How long has it been since you were there last?? She wondered how much things may have changed since he?d last set foot on her home world.

Wil gave a thoughtful moment before saying, ?It?s been about three years now. Whew, time goes fast. The last time it was totally business; trade lane discussions, that sort of thing.?

She took that in, and it meant that he?d dealt with Kaiser Joachim and his advisors. It was a completely different set of people back then.

Wil nodded, ?Indirectly, I guess I did, at least a couple of his advisors.?

Azjah sipped the scotch, ?You know that his son has become the new Emperor?? She wondered if he?d had any time to research the changes on Rigel since he?d agreed to come with her.

Wil smiled, ?If I recall correctly, the meeting didn?t come off as well as I had hoped.? He gave a soft chuckle, ?I?ve just read reports on the succession.?

She was pleased to hear that he was actively checking on the status of things on Rigel, ?Oh? Something did not negotiate right, or?.? She was curious as to what had gone awry on his last trip.

He gave her a smug smile, ?Well, you know?. The Rigelians tend to be a little?. proud.? He waited for her to rise to his bait.

Azjah lightly rested her hand against her chest with her fingers splayed, ?Proud? Surely not!?? She knew perfectly well that many felt as Wil had said, but she wasn?t going to agree with him simply on principle.

Wil?s mirth was showing, ?Yes, yes, you?re right. Perhaps it was the wrong word.? He was laughing, and decided that he simply loved this woman and her sense of humor. ?I?m sure it was something else I saw.?

Azjah chuckled, ?I am absolutely certain it was something else, we are such an accommodating race.?

Wil?s cheeks were now hurting from smiling, ?Well, let?s just hope the dear Kaiser lives up to the claim of being accommodating.?

Azjah gave him a radiant smile, ?Wolfgang is more realistic than Joachim.?

He nodded, ?Well, maybe I?ll get to meet the Kaiser this time.?

She quirked a brow at him, as though such a thing shouldn?t be a surprise to him, ?You will have little choice I?m afraid. How are your Court Protocol memories?? If she was going to take him before the Royal Presence, she wasn?t going to make the same mistake she had the last time. She would see to it he was well prepared.

Wil gave her a level look, ?Well, I know I don?t go, ?Hey, sport, how?s it hangin?.?

Azjah did choke on her scotch, ?Ah, no, no, you don?t want to do that.? She had fleeting memories of Klinton and Anne and worst of all Caleb and how they?d behaved before the Royal Personage.

Wil of course had no way of knowing what horrors were racing through Azjah?s mind, and he was trying desperately not to laugh, ?What? What?? He gave her an innocent as possible look, ?Well, I?ll take my clues from you, Azjah.?

Azjah trembled for real, ?I think you?re going to need to be a little less?..? she considered how to say it, ?Plebeian.?

Wil had been teasing her, but in light of the last episode, she had no way of knowing it was only teasing, ?Okay, well, I try not to upset him.?

She fought for some levity, ?I didn?t take you for insane.? She needed to change the subject before she ruined his light spirit, ?We?re going at a lovely time to sail; do you enjoy sailing?? She hadn?t replaced the yacht that had been blown up all those years ago, but she had added a lovely sail boat to the small fleet of watercraft owned by the company.

Wil patted her hand, ?Don?t you worry, part of the training. Went with the dancing.? He flashed her a grin, ?Sailing? Yes!! I love it.?

Azjah nodded, ?I?ll have the boat made ready.? She mentally added that to the list of things she needed Baumann to deal with prior to their arrival.

Wil sipped his scotch, ?I can?t wait. I hear there?ve been a thousand songs written about sailing on the Rigelian waters.?

Azjah smiled, ?As there should be. We?ll get to enjoy the best season for it too.? The weather over the Rigelian seas would be balmy and fair for the most part, which would make for lovely sailing.

He leaned closer to her, ?It?ll be a wonderful trip Azjah, I just know it.?

She gave him a grateful smile, ?We?ll put your forced dance classes to good use too.?

He leaned close enough to kiss her, but did not, ?I think Rigel is going to become my favorite star system.?

Azjah reached up to lightly caress his cheek, before contradicting him, ?Pyxis.?

He leaned into her touch to repeat her, ?Pyxis??

Her fingers curved along his cheek, ?Pyxis is much better, but somehow I think your favorite system should be Sardis.?

Wil reached for her hand and after capturing it, brought it to his lips, placing soft kisses on the back of her fingers, ?I think we have a lot of exploration to do together. It could take us a very long time.?

Azjah smiled, ?Much better than getting bored.?

He nodded, ?True, but it could take . . . well . . . a lifetime to see all we need to see of this universe.? When she asked him if that was a bad thing, he smiled into her eyes, ?I?m thinking that it couldn?t be better. It would definitely make me want to live a very long time.? Then he leaned forward to place a quick but tender kiss upon her lips.

As his lips touched hers, Azjah smiled, softly adding, ?The more time the better.?

Wil?s hand touched her cheek, and the look in his eyes spoke volumes of silent words, ?In many ways, I feel that my life is just beginning.?

Azjah kissed his palm, ?New beginnings.? She too was beginning a new phase in her life. She could feel the tide turning. She set down the empty glass.

Wil nodded, saying softly, ?For both of us.? Then he smiled as she put down the glass, ?Time to go??

She nodded, ?Yes, I think so.?

Wil stood, still holding her hand, ?I?ll walk you home, if you wouldn?t mind.?

She took his hand and rose, ?I would like that. Shall we?? There was so much more she would like, but that would need to wait.

?Absolutely,? he agreed, and then guided them around the couch and through the maze of tables, pushing in chairs that had been left in the aisle. ?Just two more days,? he added as they reached the door.

She nodded at him with a bit of a smile, ?Yes, two more days.?

PONDERINGS

Wil Savage sat in the left seat of his Class VI Prototype fighter craft, his right elbow on the arm of the tan leather captain?s seat, his chin supported by the thumb and knuckles of his right hand. The ship felt like home to him, and he thought it was odd how the ship that didn?t belong to him felt more like home than the mansion that did. In any case, the ship was where he did his best thinking. There were no disturbances where the ship was hangered, and if there were, there was always space. Sailing through the black had a way of prioritizing one?s thoughts. Wil always swore that he could get more work done in one hour in space than in a day on some planet.

This time his thoughts were on Azjah and the upcoming trip to Rigel. He was no newcomer to politics and negotiations, and he wouldn?t be going to see the Kaiser with any na?ve assumptions. Usually his negotiations involved trade agreements and membership in the Interplanetary Intelligence and Security Commission. His past decisions often had an indirect but profound effect on a planet?s wealth and security, for every industrial and technological planet desired to be on a major trade lane. Such a location would increase the frequency of trade and greatly reduce its cost.

This time the negotiations would be completely different, for he would have little or no say or influence. How strange that is, he thought, for this was the one time the outcome would have a direct effect upon his own life. He had fallen in love with Azjah, and this meeting with the Kaiser was critical. If she didn?t receive an annulment of her marriage to Klinton, she would not be free to be in relationship with him; not without cutting off all her connections with her people, and Wil would not allow her to do that, no matter how much he loved her.

Col. Savage didn?t like feeling helpless, but what could he bring to the table that could have any influence whatsoever upon the outcome? The only thing he had ever relied upon beside his own skills was the backing of the I.I.S.C. He had been their representative and whenever he would speak his words would carry their authority and power. Without that backing he was nothing more than a glorified military pilot.

Wil sat and went over the scenarios time and again. Officially, he was still a high-ranking I.I.S.C. agent who had been presumed killed in the line of duty. To contact the I.I.S.C. would mean losing his ship and possibly being imprisoned for desertion. Yet, without the I.I.S.C. he had no influence at all with the Kaiser. If he used his influence to get freedom for Azjah, he could wind up imprisoned for life.

Savage shook his had and released a short laugh. ?How ironic,? he said to no one.

Azjah headed for the Annex. It was the night of the challenge between Xeric and Overlord Rakeesh, and she had agreed to officiate for both men. She stepped through the doors and headed for the caller?s sofa where Corlanthis was busy with a book. He glanced up at her, ?Good evening Miss Azjah, what brings you round these parts??

He sounded surprised to see her in the Annex, and she realized she hadn?t been frequenting the Swords venue much of late. ?I?ve come to call Xeric and Rakeesh?s challenge Cor.? She wasn?t a regular DOS caller anymore, but now and then, for a special occasion, she would return to these rings to officiate.

She settled down onto the comfortable old couch as Xeric arrived with his Lady of Honor. He led Emma to a table near the rings, pulling out a chair for her with a warm smile before turning toward Azjah, ?Thanks for coming to call for us.? He was dressed in red for tonight?s event, and Azjah noted to herself that the Russian was full of surprises.

Emma?s brow rose as she glanced at Cor with his book, then she glanced at Azjah with a smile. She took her seat and was engaged in conversation with Xeric that Azjah could not hear from her vantage point.

?My pleasure Xeric. Good evening Emma.? Azjah told them before she sent Marcus for a glass of scotch and settled in for the evening by kicking off the stilettos, though she found herself missing having Wil at her side.

?Ahhh, that is tonight, isn?t it?? Cor realized and then glanced at Xeric, ?Good luck in your attempt Xeric.?

Xeric?s features were emotionless as he glanced about for Rakeesh, wondering where the Overlord might be and what was keeping him, then he gave Corlanthis a smile, ?thank you, I?m going to give it a #$%^&* good try.?

Azjah curled up on the sofa and cradled the scotch glass between both hands before taking a sip of the rich amber liquid while she awaited the arrival of the Overlord.

Taneth arrived and bounded into the room before running to pounce on Cor, nearly spilling Azjah?s scotch in the process. Azjah chuckled, ?good evening to you too Taneth.? She was thankful that none of the scotch had splashed out of the glass and onto her clothing.

She grinned, ?Hellooooo, Azjah!? Corlanthis had reached out to catch her, but in the process dropped his book onto the floor.

Rakeesh arrived then, the double doors sliding to a creaking close behind him as he trotted into the Annex loftily on all four paws. Azjah gave him a regal inclination of her head, ?Good evening Rakeesh.?

He dipped his head gently toward her, then allowed his old red-brown eyes to scan around the room, seeking his slated opponent.

Once both men were ready, Azjah rose to address the crowd, ?Gentlemen, we are hosting tonight's challenge by Xeric Mues, who is dueling with Emma Maye as his Lady of Honor, and under the Red/blue and green flag of the House of Mues. Overlord Rakeesh is dueling under the blue and white flag of the Adventurer's Guild. This will be a best 2 of 3 style contest. At stake, the title Overlord, and all of the rights, privileges and duties there in. Gentlemen, please enter Ring Challenge.?

As Azjah sat down once more, Taneth snuggled in between Azjah and Corlanthis. Azjah wrapped one arm around the girl as she told the crowd, ?Ladies and Gentlemen, let your favorite duelist know you're out there. Cheer loudly and often.?

The first match began and just as steel was about to collide with bones, Wil entered the Annex. He looked around the room and spotted Azjah preparing to officiate the match. He smiled at her and walked toward the caller?s sofa with the grace of a big cat on the prowl.

Xeric and Rakeesh began the match in the best bloody fashion of a swords duel as Xeric cut low and Rakeesh cut high. Blood hit the sand in the opening round, promising an event of significance.

Azjah gave Wil a radiant smile, clearly pleased and surprised to see him. He wasn?t a regular in the Annex any more, and she hadn?t known him when he had been a regular. Taneth leaned her head on Azjah as she got comfortable. Azjah glanced at Taneth and smiled before telling Wil, ?Ah, my dear, you could make it!?

He stood behind her and spoke softly, ?yes, thank you for the invite.? His hands dropped to her shoulders and began a gentle massage as he glanced into the ring.

Azjah pulled Taneth closer so she?d be comfortable before leaning back to look up at Wil, ?Much better now that you?re here.? Something about having Wil close always made her feel better.

He smiled at Taneth, ?Hello there!? Taneth glanced at Wil with a little smile, ?Hello.?

The seventh round was a beautiful display of dueling ability as both males showed off mirror fancy ducks, but they did nothing toward establishing the first match?s winner in this round.

Azjah leaned a bit closer to Wil with a soft whisper, ?We need to dance more often.?

His expression was pure seduction in its most primal form as he softly whispered back, ?you mean as at the ball, or afterwards?? Then he gave her a wink.

Azjah colored abruptly, but she met his brilliant blue gaze with a smile, ?both?? The room had suddenly grown much, much too warm as she held those brilliant blue eyes.

He laughed abruptly at her reply, ?Good answer!?

Azjah winked at him, ?I know,? she told him with utter confidence that he had enjoyed both forms of dance as much as she had.

The eighth round of the challenge remained scoreless as Xeric parried laterally against Rakeesh?s fancy disengage. The score remained 4-3 in the Overlord?s favor. Both duelists were beginning to tire noticeably.

Wil hugged her tighter as she smiled up at him, she was so glad he?d come. Simply the opportunity to be curled up beside him was more than they?d been able to find time for lately, and she savored it. He leaned down to kiss her lips this time, but instead of lingering there as he usually did, he made it a quick one so as not to distract her from calling.

She looked up at him with a warm smile, ?mmm, I like that.? Then with a playful wink she returned her attention to her ring, but she reached for his free hand as she did so. She craved even that simple contact with him.

Wil took her hand in his, softly caressing it with his thumb. The slow, easy kind of caress that is designed to be soothing, and sensual at the same time. Wil was the epitome of Sardanapalian delights wrapped into one body.

Round nine came, and brought with it more of Xeric?s blood as Rakeesh cut low and Xeric danced into the cut instead of away from it. Rakeesh earned the win in the first match 5-3. Azjah asked both men if they would like a break, but neither desired a breather, and she ushered them into the second round and to begin when they were ready.

The second match opened with both men slicing one another open with opposing cuts. Xeric opened low, cutting into the liontaur?s legs, but Rakeesh answered with an equally wicked high cut, once more opening up Xeric?s shoulder. 1-1

Azjah laced her fingers with Wil?s as she lifted his hand to place a kiss on his knuckles. He smiled at her gesture, and his other hand gently rubbed her shoulder as he watched the match proceed.

The second round saw Xeric smoothly moving into an elegant stop hit, and Rakeesh fancily parrying, but no one thrust. There is a pause in the bleeding.

Wil spotted Simini, who was intently following the current Overlord and his progress. He remembered her from long ago, and he wondered if she remembered him at all. Azjah followed Wil?s glance, speaking softly so as not to draw unwanted attention, ?Someone you know??

She glanced around then, nodding to Wil and giving him a small smile of recognition, but immediately her attention went back to the ring. She had been following Rakeesh?s duel most intently.

Wil nodded, ?Yes, from a long time ago.? He returned her smile with a nod and smile of his own, and exchanging a ?nice to see you again? nod.

Azjah smiled, ?I?m glad you have seen one familiar face here then.? She didn?t want him to be uncomfortable or worse, bored because he did not know anyone in the Annex. That made for long evenings when one was a stranger in a strange land.

Azjah took that opportunity to look up at Wil, who hadn?t answered her earlier query. He glanced down at her and then winked, so she slipped an arm around him and began tickling his ribs. She loved the fact that he was ticklish and that she could make him squirm with just a light touch. He grinned at her, ?You are soooooo going to get it.?

Azjah gave him a laugh that clearly said she was not afraid of that threat, ?You do keep telling me that.? Then she rested her head against his shoulder as the two duelists re-entered the ring for the final match. It opened with Xeric cutting high and Rakeesh obligingly stepping right into the path of Ivan as Xeric drew first blood. 1-0

Wil?s fingertips lightly moved over Azjah?s neck, and sent shivers of anticipation through her body. To get her mind off that avenue, she looked up at him, ?So I never got an answer about shooting at me on the range.?

He blinked in surprise, ?What? I missed.?

The second and third round were nearly a blur of action as Xeric thrust Ivan straight and true, causing Rakeesh?s low cut to go harmlessly wide, but then Xeric miscalculated and fancy danced into the great sword wielded by the Overlord, who?s high cut once again laid open Xeric?s shoulder. 2-1

Azjah chuckled softly at him, ?Well, I asked if I?d be able to get you into a ring, or perhaps on the target practice range.? She smiled sweetly, ?I got the noncommittal response about the ring, but I never heard back about the shooting range.? She was struggling to keep a straight face. His answer about getting into a ring had been clear enough for her, but there hadn?t been any response to a game of laser tag with her on the firing range, and a part of her truly wanted to see how she would fare against him.

Wil simply gave her ?the eye? as he was not about to get pulled into one of her clever schemes. ?I?ll have to think about it, darlin?.?

She canted her head at him, ?A little target practice now and then is a healthy thing.? She loved the way he turned the word ?darlin?.?

He waggled his brows at her, ?You think you can win??

Azjah gave him her best, most self assured look, ?Of course.? Her target shooting skills were good. Better than many, but she had absolutely no idea how good Wil was, and she wanted to know. But then he shocked her by telling her that she was probably right! At her utterly shocked expression, he leaned over and kissed her, which promptly made her forget the whole thread of that discussion.

The next round had both men going defensive with Xeric stop hitting the fancy lateral parry from Rakeesh. 2-1 Xeric

Round 5 was a round Imp would have been proud of! The first dual impalement of the evening as Xeric thrust and Rakeesh thrust. Both blades sank home and more blood spilled into the sand. 3-2 Xeric led.

Round 6, Xeric cut low and aimed for the liontaur?s legs once again, but Rakeesh compounded the damage by fancily ducking into the cut. 4-2 Xeric led.

Round 7 saw the end of the third match as Xeric thrust hard and fast with Ivan, the blade once more hitting its mark as Rakeesh had tried to go high, but the great blade could not find its mark. Xeric had secured the second win in this best of three series, laying claim to the Title Overlord of DOS.

Azjah?s voice rose above the noise of the room, ?All hail the new Overlord of DOS.? She nodded at Rakeesh, ?Extremely well fought Overlord Rakeesh. It has been an honor to call for you.? Then she looked at Xeric, ?Well won in a come from behind series Xeric. May your reign be long and happy.?

Emma stood up clapping her hands, clearly very excited and proud of Xeric. Her smile was huge.

Xeric dropped Ivan and leaned against Rakeesh, ?God, let?s never do that again.? The former overlord?s rugged expression was weary and old as he bellowed forth, ?Very well fought for, and earned effendi. Congratulations.? With that, Xeric pushed himself away from Rakeesh and leaned over to retrieve Ivan from the sand, ?I thought you had me,? he told Rakeesh then.

Both men bowed toward Azjah and she thanked them for a truly fine challenge match to call. She made a few notes and told them that the public cork would contain the results in the morning. She watched as Rakeesh slowly re-strapped the giant blade to his back as he responded aside to Xeric, ?Should have seen me in my youth, effendi, but I am honoured to have fought against you this evening. Reign well, and wisely, Overlord Xeric.?

Simini sat quietly, simply watching the now former Overlord to see what would happen. She also noted that the liontaur appeared to have no one to stand with him, but she did not wish to intrude further, so she remained silent and watchful. When Rakeesh crossed the wards, she was reassured that he was well and gave him a nod of respectful acknowledgement.

Wil?s fingertips moved slowly over Azjah?s back after he?d applauded both duelers for such an excellent display of skill. Azjah gave Wil a hug, then asked if they should depart. He stood and offered her his hand, which she took and rose gracefully from the sofa. She gave both the former and the current overlord a nod of respect before heading up the stairs and through the doors with Wil.

Xeric approached Emma with an ear to ear grin, ?Enjoy it?? He paused to turn and give Rakeesh a deep bow, ?I shall do my best.?

Rakeesh stopped before the wall near by the Annex doors, and swiftly secured the removal of the Adventurer?s Guild?s banner, folding it neatly across his arm, then with a weary glance back to the Annex and its crowd, the old liontaur?s big, brown eyes twinkled thoughtfully before he bade everyone a good evening and smoothly stepped through the open doorway without another word.